Welcome to Sotheby's
Established in 1744, Sotheby's is the world's premier destination for art and luxury, promoting access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories. Sotheby's believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable, and collaborative.
About the 2025 Associates Program
Join the legacy of Sotheby's, the world's oldest and largest internationally recognized auction house, uniting collectors with world-class works of art since 1744. We are offering exceptional recent graduates an exciting opportunity to participate in our prestigious 18-month Associates Program. The Sotheby's Associates Program is designed to provide practical training and immersive experiences for entry-level talent passionate about pursuing a career in the fine art and luxury industries.
Program Tracks
Associates will be placed into one of five tracks based on their academic interests and career aspirations:
- Business Development Track: Equips Associates with the skills needed to drive client engagement and revenue growth, exploring strategies for identifying new business opportunities and forging strategic partnerships.
- Corporate Track: Provides exposure to the strategic and operational functions that underpin Sotheby's global business, including Marketing, Communications, Finance, Legal, and Human Resources.
- Global Fine Art Track: Immerses Associates in the world of fine art, spanning categories from Old Masters to Contemporary Art, collaborating with specialists to gain hands-on experience in cataloging, research, and market analysis.
- Luxury Track: Associates are immersed in Sotheby's expanding luxury categories, including Jewelry, Watches, Sneakers, Sports Memorabilia, and Modern Collectibles, working alongside specialists to gain firsthand experience in cataloging, research, and market analysis.
- Operations Track: Offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on the logistical and operational functions that ensure Sotheby's success, gaining valuable experience in client services, project management, logistics, and facilities planning.
Program Structure
Over 18 months, Associates will gain a comprehensive understanding of Sotheby's business through:
- Two 6-month rotations within their assigned track, offering deep exposure to their focus area.
- Two 3-month rotations in key support departments—Operations, Marketing, Client Strategy, and Business Management—providing a holistic perspective on how our business functions work together.
What to Expect
Associates will experience the inner workings of a world-renowned auction house while engaging with great rarities and masterpieces. Highlights of the program include:
- Hands-on learning: Gain real-world insights through rotational assignments and team projects.
- Executive exposure: Interact with senior leaders and industry experts.
- Professional development: Receive world-class training and mentorship.
- Career discovery: Explore diverse opportunities in the fine art and luxury sectors.
Role and Responsibilities
As an Associate, you will:
- Experience the culture and atmosphere of Sotheby's by taking on responsibilities of Full-Time employees, working on a variety of projects and making meaningful contributions.
- Complete a series of 2-six month department rotations within assigned track and 2-three month rotations in key support departments.
- Gain on-the-job training by working alongside experienced professionals on meaningful projects throughout the program.
- Participate in an immersive orientation and training program.
- Exchange ideas and network with peers, mentors, and senior managers through team-building sessions and organized events.
Qualifications, Skills, and Requirements
To be considered for the 2025 Associates Program, you must:
- Be able to complete the entirety of the onsite 18-month program beginning on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
- Be a recent undergraduate with a graduation date between December 2023 and June 2025.
- Have a strong academic record with a minimum 3.2 GPA.
- Ideally have 6-months to 2-years of work experience.
- Possess an adaptive, positive attitude, be a multi-tasker, team player, and have a strong work ethic, leadership skills, and a curiosity and passion for learning.
- Have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Be able to multi-task and perform in a pressured environment and handle high levels of responsibility.
- Be able to work well with others as well as independently to achieve deadlines.
- Be willing to work occasional long hours, including late evenings and weekends during sale deadlines, exhibitions, and auctions.
- Have strong computer skills with knowledge of Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
At Sotheby's, we are committed to helping our Associates grow and develop in their careers. As a participant in the 2025 Associates Program, you will have access to:
- Mentorship: Be paired with a senior leader or industry expert who will provide guidance and support throughout the program.
- Training and Development: Participate in world-class training and development programs, including workshops, seminars, and conferences.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, mentors, and senior managers through team-building sessions and organized events.
- Career Advancement: Have the opportunity to advance your career within Sotheby's, with potential opportunities for promotion and professional growth.
Work Environment and Company Culture
At Sotheby's, we pride ourselves on our dynamic and inclusive work environment. As an Associate, you will be part of a team that values:
- Collaboration: We believe that collaboration and teamwork are essential to achieving our goals.
- Innovation: We encourage creativity, innovation, and outside-the-box thinking.
- Diversity and Inclusion: We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment that values and respects all employees.
- Professional Development: We are dedicated to helping our employees grow and develop in their careers.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $50,000 - $55,000. In addition to base salary, successful candidates are eligible to receive a 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.
Application Deadline
Applications will close on February 16, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. Incomplete applications or applications completed following the deadline will not be considered.
Conclusion
If you are a motivated and ambitious recent graduate looking to launch your career in the fine art and luxury industries, we encourage you to apply for the 2025 Associates Program. This is a unique opportunity to join a world-renowned organization and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. Don't miss out on this chance to unlock a world of opportunities and build a successful career with Sotheby's.
We Want to Hear From You!
If this role sounds like a perfect fit, don't hesitate. Apply today and let's build the future together.
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