Associate Specialist (Modern & Contemporary Art / Antiquities) - #1170004

The Associate Specialist (Modern & Contemporary Art, Antiquities) will assist in the curation, research, and execution of Modern & Contemporary Art and Antique auctions, including both live and online sales. The role involves managing consignments, producing high-quality cataloguing content, and supporting client relationships. The ideal candidate possesses strong art historical knowledge, commercial acumen, and a keen understanding of the Southeast Asian art market.

KEY JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Consignment & Research

• Support the sourcing and evaluation of artworks for sale across live and online auctions.
• Conduct due diligence, provenance checks, and market research to ensure accuracy and integrity of information.
• Assist in the preparation of valuation reports and consignment proposals for clients.

2. Catalogue & Sale Preparation

• Draft clear and engaging catalogue entries, artist biographies, and curatorial notes.
• Coordinate artwork photography, measurements, and data entry into internal systems.
• Liaise with the Marketing and Design teams to ensure timely production of sale catalogues and promotional materials.

3. Client Engagement

• Support Specialists in building and maintaining relationships with collectors, consignors, and institutions.
• Respond to client enquiries regarding artworks, estimates, and bidding processes.
• Assist in the organization of client viewings, previews, and exhibitions.

4. Sale Execution & Post-Sale

• Assist in the smooth running of live and online auctions, including lot order, bidding, and sale monitoring.
• Prepare post-sale reports, buyer invoices, and consignment settlements.
• Provide after-sale client support and follow-up communications.

5. Market Analysis

• Monitor regional and international art trends to identify potential opportunities for consignments.
• Maintain and update artist databases, sales records, and performance analyses.
• Participate in galleries openings / art fairs / museum show to keep up to date to the market

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Art History, Fine Arts, Arts Management, or related discipline.
• 2–4 years of relevant experience in an auction house, art gallery, or art advisory environment.
• Strong interest and knowledge in Modern & Contemporary art, particularly in Southeast Asia.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills in English (Mandarin or another Asian language is advantageous to be able to communicate with clients/artists from Asian countries).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• A proactive, collaborative, and professional approach to work.
• Demonstrated ability in appraising property and business-getting.
• Knowledge of E-mail, Spreadsheet, Word Processing and Presentation software (Microsoft Office preferred).
• Ability to learn 33 Auction systems including Box, RFC, AuctionMobility and website.
• Superior client service skills.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and prioritize.
• Strong follow-up skills with attention to detail.