Head of Private Sales, Watches

Location: Switzerland

Company

Sotheby’s is a global auction, private sales, and retail business specializing in art, luxury objects, watches, jewelry, wine, design, collectibles, and related financial services.

What you will do

• Drive the growth of private sale transactions within Watches by originating, negotiating, and executing high-value deals.
• Source exceptional watch property for private sale and auction through personal networks, market intelligence, and Sotheby’s global platform.
• Build and manage a pipeline of opportunities through proactive client engagement and business development.
• Develop long-term relationships with collectors, buyers, consignors, dealers, advisors, and other market participants.
• Partner with specialist, Client Development, auction, and strategy teams to maximise cross-selling and transaction opportunities.
• Represent Sotheby’s and Watches at fairs, exhibitions, industry events, client functions, media, and thought leadership activities.

Requirements

• 8+ years of relevant professional experience in luxury goods, art, collectibles, watches, or related markets.
• Demonstrated success originating and executing high-value transactions and developing strong client relationships.
• Deep understanding of the luxury market, its participants, and Watches-specific market dynamics.
• Strong commercial, negotiation, influencing, organisational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to build trust and credibility with high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients and collaborate across departments and regions.
• Degree-level education or equivalent relevant professional experience; strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and relevant business systems.

Nice to have

• Additional language skills.

Culture & Benefits

• Work within a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries.
• Collaborate across luxury, Watches, auction, private sales, Client Development, and specialist teams.
• Participate in exhibitions, partnerships, private selling initiatives, and events that increase market visibility.
• Access a global platform and client network covering multiple collecting categories.