ABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established in 1744, Sothebys is the world's premier destination for art and luxury. Sothebys promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Their trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories including Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sothebys is committed to making their industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.
THE ROLE
The Shipping Coordinator reports to the Head of Shipping and Buyer Experience and plays a crucial role in supporting the sales process, ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering regulations, and coordinating logistics for both pre-and post-sale activities. Responsibilities include providing customer service, creating shipping quotes, assisting with import and export of items, monitoring European and international travel exhibitions, and handling temporary imports into France for expertise. The role involves close collaboration with various departments, shippers, and other suppliers to ensure smooth operations, timely delivery, and guarantee compliance with Sothebys' policies and international regulations.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Administrative management related to transport operations
- Manage post-sale adjustments for temporary imports, exports, releases for Mise consommation customs warehousing and inventory accounting.
- Monitor Parisian and international sales results and update information regarding temporary admissions and exports.
- Prepare and manage customs adjustments and related documentation.
- Handle export license and CITES permit applications coordinating with carriers, customs, and relevant authorities.
Operational management of domestic and international transport files
- Ensure legal compliance for import/export of works.
- Resolve inquiries and issues concerning pre and post-sale shipments efficiently.
- Provide client support for inquiries and account issues throughout the sale process.
- Create accurate shipping quotes and validate them in internal systems.
- Liaise with specialist departments and shippers to coordinate packaging, collection, transport, and security instructions.
- Manage local and international transport logistics, proactively resolving problems.
- Communicate import customs specifics for travelling exhibitions.
- Coordinate group shipments to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Manage re-imports of unsold goods outside the EU and tax/customs regularization.
- Maintain updated databases and awareness of regulatory changes.
- Validate proof of exports for tax refunds and assist with pre/post-sale shipping requests.
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Minimum 5 years relevant experience.
- Excellent client service and communication skills.
- Strong knowledge of international import/export procedures and licensing.
- Leadership abilities and experience working with senior management.
- Excellent organizational skills, able to multitask and handle complexity.
- Proficient in English and MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word.
- Decisive, flexible, innovative, logical, and structured approach.
