Head of Proposals, Maternity Cover

THE ROLE

We are currently looking for a Head of Proposals, France, for a 6-month fixed-term contract to cover a maternity leave.The Head of Proposals, France, partners closely with Senior Specialists, Chairmen, and other business-development officers throughout the business-getting cycle, developing strategies tailored to the specific needs of high-value collectors and fiduciaries. The Head of Proposals, France leads cross-functional meetings at the kick-off for all major projects, develops strategies and action plans in alignment with the business leads, and closely monitors the progress of each proposal through the pitch with clients. S/he must have strong communication and leadership skills, excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, the gravitas to make executive decisions when needed, and a steady and diplomatic demeanor under pressure.

This role will lead a Paris-based team, ensuring excellence against tight deadlines, driving creative innovation, analyzing results and seeking feedback to ensure a cycle of continual improvement. S/he is a mentor to each member of the team, reviewing the work of the further Paris-based Proposal Writer, providing guidance, and nurturing leadership skills. S/he is responsible for the timely completion of all projects, and ensures that they create the best possible impression on our clients.

RESPONSIBLITIES

• Plan, write and manage production of compelling, persuasive and bespoke proposal documents and pitch materials to tight deadlines
• Coordinate and oversee all aspects of proposal production and delivery, including scheduling, researching, outlining, writing, editing, proofreading, designing, and publishing the Proposal
• Line manage a further Paris-based Proposal Writer
• Manage workloads, ensuring deadlines are met and work is of the highest possible standard. Define and direct team strategy. Manage departmental budget.
• Develop and nurture positive relationships with senior business-getters and colleagues in Paris New York and other Sotheby’s locations. Maintain a thorough ongoing knowledge of their business goals, customer priorities, and competitive environment and in turn, help them to understand and embrace new business pitching approaches.
• Meet regularly with the Business Development team in Paris to track business opportunities and develop a project pipeline.
• Collaborate closely with both the Global Editor & Head of Proposals, London and the Head of Proposals, Americas to balance workloads and ensure consistency across product and process
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across the Marketing Division, especially the Marketing & Events Director, Europe and the Marketing Managers in Paris .
• Keep abreast of market data, media coverage and general developments at Sotheby’s and in the broader art market, in order to keep proposals fresh, relevant and compelling.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Master’s Degree, with a preference for Business Schools or History or Art Degrees
• Strong experience as a manager or director in a directly relevant industry (ie. art market, publishing, business development)
• French native speaker, with excellent spoken and written English
• Strong leadership and project management skills; can confidently lead meetings and build
• relationships with key stakeholders
• Excellent writing, editing and communication skills
• Meticulous attention to detail and follow-up skills
• Ability to supervise a creative team in both print and digital realms.
• Ability to collaborate in a team environment as well as to work independently.
• Ability to prioritize in complex, fast-paced environment while managing a high-pressured team.
• Highly motivated, organized, proactive, enthusiastic and resourceful.
• Proficient use of InDesign and Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word and PowerPoint