Managing Director, China

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Our deep expertise across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate through RM Sotheby’s and Concierge. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby’s new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

THE ROLE

The Managing Director, China, holds executive responsibility for driving sustainable growth via client development and partnerships, while managing all facets of the China business. Reporting to the Managing Director, Asia, this leader fosters collaboration across local, regional, and global teams to cultivate collectors, expand auction and private sales, and ensure operational resilience in a regulated environment.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Client Development & Partnership-Driven Growth

• Build and deepen relationships with China-based collectors to secure consignments and boost private sales, acting as senior sponsor for personalized client experiences.
• Identify new client segments and forge strategic partnerships to accelerate development and originate high-value opportunities.
• Collaborate with specialists, category leaders, regional, and global teams to optimize cross-category sales and align on priorities.

Network Connectivity & Global Integration

• Cultivate trusted ties with global and regional category heads (e.g., Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Contemporary Art) for seamless collaboration.
• Integrate China clients into Sotheby's worldwide network to unlock cross-border engagements.
• Represent Sotheby's China externally to elevate brand positioning.

Compliance, Governance & Operations

• Provide strong oversight of regulatory compliance, risk management, and operational excellence within China.
• Ensure all activities align with local regulations and Sotheby’s global standards and policies.
• Partner with legal, compliance, and operations teams to navigate China’s dynamic regulatory landscape.
• Define and execute the China strategy in alignment with regional and global priorities.
• Monitor performance against strategic objectives, implementing actions to ensure sustainable growth.

 

KEY REQUIREMENTS

Experience

• 15+ years leading in auction houses, luxury, or client-centric sectors.
• Track record growing high-value relationships and commercial outcomes in China.
• Expertise in China market dynamics, regulations, culture, and consignment/private sales.
• Proven operations management spanning finance, HR, compliance.

Skills & Capabilities

• Client-focused with senior relationship ownership.
• Collaborative style suited to matrixed, global structures.
• Strong influencing, negotiation, commercial acumen, and cultural agility.
• Exceptional executive presence.

Language

Fluent in Chinese and English

 

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