Posted: Fri 19 Jun 2026
We are seeking a full-time Saleroom Manager – Interiors Sales to join our Cambridge office.
We've been in business in Cambridgeshire for nearly 200 years. We are a privately owned, independent partnership and make buying, selling and taking professional advice easy, enjoyable and rewarding.
We started life as cattle auctioneers back in 1825 and today we have six offices across the region offering advice on property, land, farms, fine art, tractors and steam engines, as well as hosting regular auctions for all of these divisions.
We offer excellent salary and benefit packages, career progression opportunities and support for professional qualifications.
What will you be doing?
The Saleroom Manager is responsible for the successful planning, delivery, and performance of the auction house's monthly Interiors Sales. This role oversees all operational aspects of the sales process, from consignment intake through catalogue production, viewing, auction execution, and post-sale administration. The position combines team leadership, operational management, client service, and commercial responsibility to ensure sales are delivered efficiently, professionally, and profitably.
Main Purpose / Scope of the role:
Sale Management
Lead and manage the end-to-end delivery of monthly Interiors Sales.
Develop and maintain sale schedules, ensuring all deadlines are met.
Coordinate consignment intake, lotting, valuation support, cataloguing, photography, and condition reporting.
Ensure catalogues are produced accurately and published on schedule across all platforms.
Oversee auction day operations, ensuring smooth and professional execution of sales.
Monitor sale performance and identify opportunities to improve turnover, vendor participation, and buyer engagement.
Saleroom Operations
Manage all saleroom activities including goods receiving, storage, movement, display, and collection for Interiors and other Specialist sales.
Ensure lots are presented to a high standard during viewing periods and auctions.
Maintain efficient inventory control and accurate location tracking of all property.
Oversee post-sale administration including collections and shipping coordination.
Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and auction house policies.
Team Leadership
Manage and supervise saleroom and support staff involved in Interiors Sales.
Plan staffing requirements for viewings, auction days, and collections.
Foster a collaborative, customer-focused culture.
Client Relations
Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, buyers and other prospective clients.
Provide professional advice regarding consignments, estimates, sale suitability, and auction procedures.
Resolve client queries and complaints efficiently and professionally.
Support business development initiatives to secure new consignments and expand the client base.
Commercial Performance
Take overall responsibility for achieving monthly Interiors Sale revenue and profitability targets.
Monitor key performance indicators including turnover, sell-through rates, average lot value, and vendor acquisition.
Identify opportunities to increase consignments and improve operational efficiency.
Contribute to marketing initiatives and promotional campaigns for sales.
What will it take to be successful?
Essential Experience
Minimum 3–5 years' experience within an auction house, fine art business, antiques trade, or related sector.
Demonstrable experience managing auctions, sales operations, or saleroom activities.
Experience supervising and developing staff.
Strong understanding of interiors, decorative arts, antiques, and collectable markets.
Essential Skills
Excellent organisational and project management abilities.
Strong commercial awareness and ability to drive sales performance.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong interpersonal and client relationship management skills.
Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
Competent IT skills including auction management software and Microsoft Office applications.
Desirable Qualifications
Degree or professional qualification in Fine Art, Art History, Antiques, Decorative Arts, Business Management, or related discipline.
Membership of a recognised professional body.
Experience of online auction platforms and digital marketing channels.
Why join us?
Cheffins is a privately owned, independent partnership and offer our clients an outstanding combination of expertise, service and commitment.
Our people are at the heart of our success and are the vital force that animates our business. We strive to create and maintain a welcoming, inclusive, healthy and safe work environment that embraces the range of human differences. We want to attract passionate people who respect and appreciate the uniqueness and value that every one of us brings to the business. By striving to build a diverse, inclusive, and empowered team, we broaden our perspectives, drive innovation, and create a vibrant work environment. We take responsibility for looking after our people’s physical, mental and social wellbeing; professional development; equal treatment; and opportunities for growth.
How will we reward you?
What happens next?
This role could be the best move you make; take your time to apply and tell us about who you are, what motivates you, your life experiences and what you would like Cheffins to offer you. Be part of our forward-thinking, innovative team, who are proud of our heritage.
Cheffins are committed to maintaining a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment that embraces the uniqueness and value that each person can bring to the business and encourages everyone to be themselves.
We look forward to receiving your application.
Please note that applications submitted without a covering letter and completed application form will not be considered.
Location: Cambridge
Closing date:
Contact name: Grace Emery
Contact email: [email protected]
