Specialist, Whisky

As a Specialist in the Whisky Department, you will be responsible for developing business for the department and meeting sales targets. You will actively engage with consignors, collectors, and trade contacts, leveraging your expertise in Fine Spirits to source exceptional items for sale. Working alongside the Head of Spirits, you will play a key role in shaping the department's growth strategy while delivering the highest level of service to clients. You will also contribute to global marketing and promotional initiatives, helping Bonhams maintain its competitive edge. This position requires a dynamic and proactive individual with strong networking skills, a passion for spirits, and a commitment to expanding Bonhams' presence in the global market.,

• Drive business getting for the department to meet and exceed sales targets.
• Collaborate with the Head of Spirits to develop and implement strategies that foster new business opportunities.
• Source consignments of Fine Spirits for auctions across the UK, US, and Europe, building a pipeline of valuable lots.
• Actively contribute to the ongoing development of a robust customer database-focusing on both buyers and sellers.
CLIENT RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT
• Build and maintain relationships with established collectors, encouraging repeat business with Bonhams as either buyers or consignors.
• Maintain regular contact with trade contacts, encouraging further business with the department.
• Develop strong relationships with clients, providing them with expert advice and outstanding service to facilitate successful auctions.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS & COLLABORATION
• Work closely with the Head of Department to create a strategic advertising and marketing campaign to promote the department and drive business growth, within set budgets.
• Support the team in creating and producing auction catalogues, ensuring timely delivery and content accuracy.
• Contribute to marketing and promotional events, both locally and globally, representing Bonhams at exhibitions and other relevant events.
EXPERTISE & VALUATION
• Perform valuations of client property in the UK and Europe, ensuring timely and accurate assessments.
• Provide expertise and guidance on cataloguing and researching Spirits for sale to the highest standards.
• Support and mentor other specialists in the team, contributing to their professional development and understanding of the market.
COMPETITOR AWARENESS
• Stay informed about competitors' strategies and activities to ensure Bonhams maintains a strong market position in the Spirits sector.
EVENTS & PROMOTIONS
• Assist in organising and participating in exhibitions, promotional events, and lectures to enhance the department's visibility and engage with new and existing clients.
• Actively promote the Spirits Department through public engagements, contributing to Bonhams' broader visibility in the spirits and auction markets.
ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT
• Oversee the management of Bonhams Whisky Allowance account, including handling re-offers from settlement forms.
• Ensure accurate and efficient handling of client accounts and transactions, providing exceptional client service.
SALES DELIVERY
• Assist the Head of Spirits to deliver regular auctions of Whisky & Fine Spirits.
• Oversee movement and care of our clients' property (incoming items, items assigned to auction, sold and unsold lots - work conducted at external storage facilities when required).
• Prepare accurate cataloguing for auction listings, valuations, proposals and private sales.
• Prepare condition reports for auction items and assist with authentication.
• Oversee photography of auction lots and auction listing preparation.
• Assist with client enquiries.
  
  A minimum of 3+ years of experience in the Spirits business or related field, with strong expertise in Whisky.
• Demonstrated experience in business development and client relationship management within a luxury goods or auction environment.
• Excellent networking and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Collaborative team player with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Proven experience in auction cataloguing and property valuations.
• Familiarity with the international spirits market and a strong awareness of competitor activities.
• Knowledge of the auction process is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Flexibility to travel frequently both domestically and internationally.
  
  Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories, including motor cars, paintings, jewellery, and entertainment memorabilia.
About the Department Established in 1997, Bonhams Fine Wine & Spirits Department has built a global platform for the buying and selling of rare and exquisite spirits. Our auctions, spanning three continents, operate from seven key locations, offering unparalleled global reach. We work closely with consignors and buyers worldwide, leveraging our extensive expertise and a client-focused approach. Our Edinburgh saleroom plays a crucial role in these global operations, with a dedicated team driving success in this dynamic market.