About Sworders
Operating since 1782, Sworders is one of the longest established fine art auction houses in the UK, now conducting over 45 auctions each year. Specialist categories include British and European Paintings, Asian Art, Jewellery, Watches, Furniture, Silver, 20th Century Design, and Modern and Contemporary Art.
Combining exceptional personal advice with innovative, thoughtful marketing and a deep understanding of the world of art and antiques, Sworders operates internationally, providing valuation and auction services worldwide. We ensure our client's works are seen, desired, and purchased by the world’s largest art markets in Europe, America, and Asia.
Outline summary
We are looking for a proactive and organised Art Handler to join our busy Operations team in our Stansted Saleroom, playing a key role behind the scenes in preparing our fascinating items for auction. From fine art and antiques to jewellery, furniture and more, you will help ensure that every item is safely received, stored, photographed, displayed and collected.
This is a hands-on role that combines logistics, client service and teamwork. You will work closely with specialists, photographers, clients and shipping partners to ensure the smooth movement of items through the auction process, whilst maintaining the high standards of presentation and customer service.
Responsibilities
Assist in the effective storage of items entered for auction or intended for collection.
- Identifying items for storage, ensure accurate stock control numbers are easily identifiable.
- Record and maintain stock control processes to ensure items are located for sale or collection.
- Ensure items are properly labelled and stored in the correct area/ given to the correct staff.
- Update Sworders database with information relating to stock control and location.
Assist in the collection and delivery process.
- Support clients and logistic companies in the delivery of items to the saleroom
- Work with logistic companies to ensure items are available for collection via Sworders shipping service, or by other collection agents or purchasers.
- Check on a regular basis collections and delivery appointments and ensure items are ready for collection.
- Keep all appropriate paperwork and electronic records up to date, recording information into Sworders database.
- Accurately record client’s data and log consignments into the offices
- Respond to client enquiries within set timescales.
Assist in the lotting of items for sale and organise time effectively to setup items for presale viewing.
- Accurately lot items for sale, as appropriate.
- Set up salerooms for viewing, including moving furniture, hanging pictures, and setting visual environments.
- Undertake ad hoc requests for running errands, including repairing and repainting walls, damaged by hanging pictures and other items.
- Provide support for the photography department in moving items required for photography and marketing images.
Take a pro-active approach to Health and Safety
- Ensuring the safety of clients, keeping high traffic areas clear of obstructions, identify areas of potential hazard or trip and take action to make safe.
- Ensure compliance with H&S, report any damage or breakages to the office manager.
- Keep areas tidy and free from obstruction.
- Secure front reception areas at the end of business day
Adhere to Sworders internal policies and procedures.
- Ensure familiarity and compliance with Company Van, to ensure safety of staff and items.
- Follow Sworders staff handbook and comply with all Sworders internal policies and procedures, including but not limited to Data Protection and Privacy Policies, Anti-Money Laundering processes.
- Attend sworders events where appropriate and availability allows.
- Provide support for Sworders initiatives and have a positive attitude to change and development.
Person Specification
Essential skills
- Good time-management and multi-tasking skills
- Experience of handling items including heavy (with assistance)
- Excellent communication skills
- Be willing to learn and take direction
- Happy working individually and as part of a team
- UK Driving License
- Good knowledge of Microsoft applications
Desirable skills
- Hold a C1 licence
- Experience of using and managing a company van
What We Offer:
Family first
· Flexible working, we are committed to providing flexibility in how and where work is performed to accommodate our diverse workforce
Wellbeing
· Enhanced annual leave with additional days for long service and Christmas.
· Employee Assistance Programme, our range of confidential services and resources is here to help you navigate personal and professional challenges
· Company events, seasonal parties, connections with schools, charitable contributions and more
· Breaks, encourage staff to have a break during the day including the flexibility to take as long as you need
Development
· Education, we offer and encourage our staff to further develop their experiences, both through internal and external avenues
Sustainability
· Climate perks, we offer employers offer paid 'journey days' to staff who travel on holiday by land or sea instead of flying - empowering staff to act on their values
· Free onsite parking: at our main Auction House
…and much more!
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Company pension
- Free flu jabs
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
