Head of Department, Antique Arms and Armour Specialist

2 months ago

London, Greater London, United Kingdom Bonhams Full time
About Bonhams

Bonhams is a leading global auction house with a rich heritage and a commitment to excellence. Our global operations are based in key locations around the world, where we sell a wide range of items, including motor cars, paintings, jewelry, and entertainment memorabilia.

About the Team

Bonhams Antique Arms and Armour auctions offer a diverse range of European and Eastern armour and edged weapons, as well as wheel-lock, flintlock, percussion, and pin-fire rifles, guns, pistols, and revolvers; American firearms by renowned makers such as Colt and Winchester; Islamic and Japanese weapons and armour; accessories including powder-flasks, books, and other items related to the armourer and his craft from the 16th to late 19th centuries. This esteemed department holds auctions in London and Massachusetts.

The department is based in our Knightsbridge saleroom, but there is potential for working partially from other Bonhams locations.

About the Role

In your role as Head of Department, Antique Arms and Armour, you will:

  • Effectively manage a small team of people, leading by direction and example in a manner that will maximize the efficiency of the team.
  • Catalogue Antique Arms and Armour sales, and assist with preparation of the catalogues on a timely basis to meet deadlines.
  • Maintain budgeted commission levels.
  • Have a good sound knowledge of your area.
  • Maintain contact with collectors and individuals with known collections of your area.
  • Actively pursue new business for the department.
  • Develop the database of buyers and vendors.
  • Foster good relations with trade and professional bodies to assist with the advancement of the department.
  • Ensure the department meets all the contractual obligations to both Bonhams buyers and vendors.
  • Entertain customers as and when appropriate.
  • Manage the budgeting of the Department and effectively use the expenditure in such a way to bring the most benefits.
About You

As Head of Department for Antique Arms and Armour, you will play a pivotal role in assembling, managing, and executing auctions. You will be responsible for overseeing the department's operations, building and maintaining client relationships, sourcing high-quality consignments, and driving sales growth. This role requires a deep understanding of weaponry and armour, manufacturers and craftsmen, historical context, and market trends.

Key Skills and Experience

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Proven experience in the specialty field and/or in the auction industry.
  • Relationships with established dealers and collectors in the field.
  • Strong written and verbal communication and networking skills.
  • Detail-oriented, well-organized manager.
  • Ability to prioritize and meet strict scheduled deadlines.
  • Computer proficient, and able to work within our business enterprise software.
  • Ability to travel as necessary to achieve goals.
What We Offer

Bonhams offers a range of benefits and perks, including:

  • Generous holiday entitlement, increasing with service.
  • Healthcare and Life Assurance.
  • Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
  • Cycle to Work Scheme.
  • Season Ticket Loan.

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