Cataloguer
Reports to: Head of Homes and Interiors Department
Location: Stansted
Salary: On application, subject to experience
Outline summary
We are seeking an experienced cataloguer to work predominantly within the Homes & Interiors (H&I) department, with the flexibility to support other departments as required.
Play an integral part in supporting the department to undertake cataloguing of items consigned for sale, be proactive in researching items to ensure accuracy. Provide condition reports for items consigned that accurately reflect each item’s status, updating information on Sworders database.
Support the successful operations of the department, liaising with clients where appropriate, responding to queries via telephone and email, consigning items within the offices for appraisal.
Responsibilities
Work within the department to undertake cataloguing of items consigned for sale, be proactive in researching items to ensure accuracy.
- Cataloguing items for auction in compliance with in-house cataloguing styles, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail.
- Conducting research on consigned items, referring to specialists, when necessary, to enhance item descriptions and value.
- Reviewing catalogued items for accuracy and raising issues or inconsistencies with the Head of Department.
- Providing detailed condition reports for lots, including capturing and uploading additional images to the Sworders database.
- Maintaining familiarity with upcoming sale items, identifying and resolving issues or uncatalogued items early in the process.
- Proofreading catalogues and ensuring all sales are prepared and uploaded to the website within agreed timeframes.
Support the logistics and sale preparation to ensure the successful presentation of items for sale, including uploading of information and images to Sworders database.
- Unpacking new consignments and managing their integration into the H&I room.
- Overseeing furniture deliveries and maintaining accurate records of locations within Go.
- Ensuring the H&I room is organised, tidy, and all items have receipt numbers.
- Assisting the logistics team with clearing shelves post-sale.
- Collaborating with the photography team to ensure items are ready for imaging.
- Setting up ‘Special Sections’ and tiles on Go for the online catalogue.
- Assisting with moving and photographing furniture and rugs when needed.
Support the successful operations of the department, liaising with clients, responding to queries, and consigning items within the offices for appraisal.
- Responding promptly and professionally to client queries via telephone and email.
- Liaising with administration teams to ensure efficient client service and compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements.
- Supporting client engagement during appraisals and consignment within the office.
- Providing telephone bidding support on sale day.
Show integrity and have a willingness to learn, develop personal knowledge and skills to support the department and personal growth, keeping up to date with commercial fashions, trends, and hammer prices.
- Participating in team meetings, sharing ideas and feedback to support department growth.
- Collaborating with valuation, administrative, and marketing teams to ensure the successful presentation of items for sale.
- Staying updated on trends, commercial fashions, and hammer prices to support cataloguing and personal development.
- Proactively identifying areas for personal growth and undertaking research or training to enhance knowledge and skills.
Adhere to Sworders internal policies and procedures.
- Adhering to Sworders' internal policies and procedures, including Data Protection, Privacy Policies, and AML processes.
- Attending Sworders events and supporting initiatives where appropriate.
Person Specification
Essential skills
- 3 years’ experience of cataloguing in a fast-paced environment
- Client focused with a drive to deliver excellent service
- Excellent organisational skills with outstanding attention to detail
- A good team player with excellent communication skills
- Flexibility to take on additional tasks/responsibilities
Self-motivated with the confidence to work on your own initiative - The ability to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines
- Enthusiastic with a willingness to learn
Working knowledge of Microsoft software and Go
Desirable skills
- Has experience working within an Auction house
What We Offer
Family First
- Flexible working: We are committed to providing flexibility in how and where work is performed to support our diverse workforce
Wellbeing
- Employee Assistance Programme: A confidential service offering resources to help you navigate personal and professional challenges
- Company events: Seasonal parties, school connections, charitable initiatives, and more
- Breaks: Encouraging regular breaks throughout the day, including the flexibility to take as long as needed for lunch
Development
- Education & Growth: We support and encourage staff to expand their skills and experiences through both internal and external opportunities
Sustainability
- Climate Perks: We offer paid 'journey days' to staff who choose land or sea travel over flying for holidays, empowering employees to act on their values
…and much more!
If you are enthusiastic and looking to establish yourself in an exciting role please send your CV with a brief covering letter outlining why you are perfect for Sworders to Jo Winter – jowinter@sworder.co.uk