Art Handler

About Bonhams

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 team

The London Art Handling team are a passionate and enthusiastic group based between our New Bond Street and Knightsbridge locations. We consistently provide a high level of support to auctions and the surrounding internal processes of the auction house. We pride ourselves on safely and efficiently installing and deinstalling a wide range of artwork in accordance with the demanding auction calendar. We take great care in presenting artwork to the highest aesthetic standard and continually look to improve with new techniques. Working alongside the wider operations team on auction day we ensure the smooth running of auctions providing support and a high level of customer service to clients as required. We also support a number of specialist departments in pre and post auction activities vital to the successful operation of the business.

About the role

Working closely with the Senior Art Handler, Head of Saleroom and wider operations team this role predominantly includes the safe handling; installation; movement and storage of all works of art throughout the galleries and back of house areas.

The individual is also responsible for supporting specialist departments in the day to day management and movement of property, whilst continuing to meet auction deadlines. Adhering to Bonhams internal processes is an important focus and continuous safeguarding of property should be followed at all times.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

• Ensure clear and frequent communication to colleagues and Management, ensuring any issues are escalated in a timely manner
• Movement, handling and packing of artwork between and within Bonhams locations in compliance with company manual handling and health and safety policies
• Supporting and assisting the departments to meet deadlines in preparation of public viewings, auctions and events
• Supporting and assisting departments with online auctions, in particular viewing by scheduled appointments
• Installation of artworks and objects, requiring the use of hand and power tools
• Working at height upon occasions
• Regular heavy lifting, including moving large paintings, sculpture, works of art, furniture, saleroom equipment and display cabinets
• Being aware of all security aspects of the saleroom including the monitoring of goods in the saleroom itself, loading bay and other public areas
• Maintain high degree of vigilance for the safe custody of goods on viewing and auction days, reporting any anomalies to the Senior Art Handler, Head of Saleroom or Gallery Manager
• Ensuring that all key areas in the building are clear and operational at all times
• To be appropriately attired
• To provide excellent client service at all times
• Be aware of, and follow, all best practices concerning the handling of art and objects and health and safety controls in the worklplace
• Ensure that all lots are checked off and a location catalogue prepared before public viewing
• Accurate locating of property within the salerooms and in collections
• Prepare the gallery before the commencement of the auction ensuring all the necessary equipment is available and in place
• Liaise with and support cashiers and client service teams as and when required
• To safeguard and protect condition of artwork at all times
• Assist in the supervision the clearing of objects by a third-party shipper ensuring they also safeguard the condition of items at all times
• Ensure all accidents, damage or loss are immediately reported to the Head of Saleroom and a report is sent to the correct internal email for record purposes
• Perform specialist department duties as allocated – specifically the day to day management of property care, inventory accuracy and movement of lots within the offices, studios and salerooms
• Communicate and liaise with relevant Specialist department teams to ensure property is managed according to their requirements or deadlines
Ensure both specialist teams and saleroom management are aware of current workload and flag any competing priorities or issues that may create conflict

Key Skills & Attributes

• Efficient, hard-working, prepared to take the initiative
• Able to work calmly under pressure
• Previous experience and knowledge of handling and installing fine art
• Excellent client service skills
• Flexible approach to work, honest and highly self-motivated
• Prepared for hard, physical work and at times long hours
• Able to work evenings and weekends when required
• Physically fit and able to undertake regular lifting
• Flexible team player
• Punctual
• Proactive approach to serving client demands
• Computer literate
Experienced with working at height and using gallery equipment

Bonhams Benefits

If you wish to apply, please send your CV and cover letter by the 1st April 2024 at midnight.

We thank you for your interest in this position but please note that we will only contact candidates chosen for further consideration.

Bonhams is an equal opportunity employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.