Christie's, the world's leading international auction house, is hiring a Business Director to work in the Luxury department in Paris.
PRIMARY FUNCTION/POSITION SUMMARY
This role supports the Regional Managing Director across three key areas: Managerial, Financial, and Strategic. It partners closely with Luxury Department Heads (Jewelry and Handbags) to provide guidance on management and processes, implement strategic goals, support departmental objectives, and drive profitability, in auctions and private sales.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Financial & Client Management
Provide financial insights and data analysis to support pipeline updates, budgeting, forecasting, and P&L reviews with the Finance Partner.
Collaborate on client engagement initiatives with Marketing and Business Intelligence teams.
Review and advise on non-standard financial and commercial deals in coordination with the RMD and Commercial Office to ensure profitability.
Ensure availability of accurate sales and competitor data for post-sale evaluations.
Auction Strategy and Business Planning
Participate in and recommend strategic initiatives and growth opportunities, partnering with HOD and RMD
Drive marketing, events and touring plans with input from the HOD
Support implementation of the global business plan and encourage cross-category collaboration.
Assist in preparing communications regarding policy, staffing, and strategic changes.
Recommend improvements to operational systems in coordination the relevant teams.
Provide competitive analysis across France, and EMEA if needed.
Risk & Legal Oversight
Collaborate with administrative and legal teams to monitor and mitigate risks.
Support litigation follow-up and legal procedures related to auctions and private sales.
Trouble shooting pre and post auction.
Preparation with the support of the legal team of local expert or partnership contract for a Paris sale.
Escalate unmitigated risks to the RMD and Finance Partner.
Management and People Support
Act as a sounding board and provide advisory support to department heads on management and general operational processes.
Partner with department heads and HR to identify staffing needs, development plans, and succession planning.
Support alignment of departmental objectives with corporate goals.
Facilitate communication between departments and support teams.
Participate in recruitment, onboarding, and performance management with HOD, HR and RMD.
QUALIFICATIONS
Master’s degree in Business Management or equivalent preferred; or undergraduate degree with 5-7 years relevant experience.
Proactive and collaborative approach essential.
Proficient in Outlook, Excel, Word, and presentation software; strong data analysis skills.
Fluent in French and English.
Experience in Luxury sectors (Jewelry, Handbags, Watches, wine) preferred.