AVP, Head of Proposals, Americas

THE ROLE

The Head of Proposals, Americas, partners closely with Senior Specialists, Chairmen, and other business-development officers throughout the business-getting cycle, developing strategies tailored to the specific needs of high-value collectors and fiduciaries. The Head of Proposals, Americas leads cross-functional meetings at the kick-off for all major projects, develops strategies and action plans in alignment with the business leads, and closely monitors the progress of each proposal through the pitch with clients. S/he must have strong communication and leadership skills, excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, the gravitas to make executive decisions when needed, and a steady and diplomatic demeanor under pressure.

This role will lead a New York-based team of talented writers, project managers and designers, ensuring excellence against tight deadlines, driving creative innovation, analyzing results and seeking feedback to ensure a cycle of continual improvement. S/he is a mentor to each member of the team, reviewing the work of writers and designers, providing guidance, and nurturing leadership skills. S/he is responsible for the timely completion of all projects, and ensures that they create the best possible impression on our clients.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and nurture positive relationships with senior business-getters and colleagues in New York and other Sotheby’s locations in North America. Maintain a thorough ongoing knowledge of their business goals, customer priorities, and competitive environment and in turn, help them to understand and embrace new business pitching approaches.
• Meet regularly with the General Managers in the specialist departments and the Heads of Business Development and Consignment Management to track business opportunities and develop a project pipeline.
• Establish briefing, assignment and workflow processes.
• Manage a team of writers, project managers, designers and a data analyst. Assist and managing workloads, ensuring deadlines are met and work is of the highest possible standard. Define and direct team strategy. Manage departmental budget.
• Directly manage selected proposal projects when required due to capacity, importance or confidentiality.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across the Marketing Division, especially the Director for Marketing and Strategy, GFA; Director of Creative Services; and Director of Digital Marketing. Confer regularly with the Head of Business Development Support, in London, and collaborate on trans-Atlantic proposals.
• Monitor broader developments in Proposals/Bids industry to stay at the forefront – conducting research, attending conferences and connecting with suppliers.
• Keep abreast of market data, media coverage and general developments at Sotheby’s and in the broader art market, in order to keep proposals fresh, relevant and compelling.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 6+ years as a manager or director in a directly relevant industry.
• Ability to supervise a creative team in both print and digital realms.
• Solutions-oriented with strong process and project management skills
• Excellent verbal, written communication and presentation skills, as well as strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Ability to collaborate in a team environment as well as to work independently.
• Able to prioritize in complex, fast-paced environment while managing a high-pressured team.
• Highly motivated, organized, proactive, enthusiastic and resourceful.
• Proficient use of InDesign and Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word and PowerPoint

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $120,000-$160,000. In addition to base salary successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, as well as a competitive benefits package. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered.