Retail jobs in United Kingdom

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy‑now channels including private sales, e‑commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry‑leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include 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. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

Technician Manager / Gallery Manager

London, New Bond Street

Zero hours contract: Hours of work when required: Monday to Friday: 08:30 – 17:30 Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 – 17:00. All shifts are to be agreed by both parties at least 1 month in advance.

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Synonymous with innovation, Sotheby’s promotes access, connoisseurship and preservation of fine art and rare objects through auctions, private sales and retail locations. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 50 categories, which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Interiors, among many others.

The Casual Technician will provide flexible support to the wider Logistics team, assisting primarily with the installation and deinstallation of exhibitions, auction room set‑ups, artwork unpacking, safe handling, storage, and the packing of artworks for transport between storage facilities. The role requires a high standard of client service when dealing with both external clients and internal departments.

Due to the seasonal nature of the business, working patterns may vary, and a flexible approach is essential. Shifts will be scheduled and agreed at least one month in advance and must be adhered to by both Sotheby’s and the Casual Technician. Occasional weekend work may be required to support exhibition viewings.

Please note that this position is offered on a zero‑hours contract, with no guaranteed minimum number of working hours.

• Support the Logistics team with the installation and deinstallation of all exhibitions.
• Assist with Auction room set‑ups and preparation.
• Unpack, handle and store artworks in accordance with our procedures.
• Pack artwork for transportation between Sotheby’s sites.
• Deliver a high level of client service to both external clients and internal departments.
• Maintain flexibility in line with seasonal business needs and pre‑arranged overtime requirements.
• Shifts are to be agreed at least one month in advance and adhered to.
• Take a proactive role in problem‑solving to support the smooth and efficient execution of exhibition installations and deinstallations.
• Collaborate with external contractors to ensure all exhibition installations and deinstallations are completed on schedule.

• Proven experience in art handling.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Display a positive attitude and adhere to Sotheby’s Service Standards.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, capable of collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational skills and exceptional attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and consistency in all tasks.
• Experienced in the use of Microsoft Office, Google Sheets and SAP.
• Employees in this role will be expected to have a flexible approach to work and will be required to work on selected evenings and weekends and maybe required to provide a level of support to other locations.

The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race (including, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, such as natural hair, hair texture, and protective and treated or untreated hairstyles), color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership/union status, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, genetic information, reproductive health decision, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province or local law. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it operates.

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