What are the responsibilities and job description for the Client Services Supervisor, LA position at Bonhams?
About Bonhams
Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories, including motor cars, paintings, jewelry, and entertainment memorabilia.
Our employees are passionate about their work, and we pride ourselves on a bespoke approach that aims to make every client feel important. It is an exciting time for our business and our global leadership team of art world professionals are now ready to for a People focused team to help them develop their talent strategy, strengthen our people brand globally, build organizational capability and drive process improvement.
Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.
About the Role
Client Services is responsible for ensuring Bonhams’ global clientele receive exceptional service throughout the auction process. Reporting to the Head of Client Services, US, the Client Services Supervisor leads and manages the Los Angeles Client Services team, fostering collaboration with the wider Client Services team, Art Departments, and support departments, while upholding Bonhams’ service standards across all client touchpoints.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
- Lead, support, and develop the Los Angeles Client Services team, upholding high service standards and fostering strong performance
- Manage training, onboarding, and knowledge-sharing across the team
- Oversee staffing for daily operations, sales, and events, ensuring coverage aligns with business needs
- Partner with internal teams and external vendors to deliver seamless pre-sale, sale, and post-sale experiences, proactively identifying areas for improvement
- Handle VIP clients and service escalations with discretion and professionalism
- Monitor service metrics and client feedback, implementing enhancements as needed
- Ensure compliance with company policies and contribute to process improvement initiatives
Additional Responsibilities
- Ensure timely, professional responses to client inquiries across all channels, including in person, by phone, email, and live chat
- Maintain welcoming, clean, and well-staffed front-of-house spaces
- Manage auction-day operations, including client registration, bidding platforms, and cashiering
- Support documentation, system updates, and accurate client account management
- Remain flexible to support previews, evening events, and offsite sales
- Participate in special projects and maintain confidentiality in all responsibilities
In addition to the tasks and responsibilities listed, you may be required to perform other duties as assigned by your manager.
Key Skills and Attributes
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required
- Effective leadership and team development skills; prior management experience a plus
- Strong customer service background, with the ability to remain calm under pressure
- Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
- Organized, adaptable, and proactive in problem-solving
- Comfortable in a fast-paced, hands-on environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed
What We Offer
In addition to an active and progressive work environment, Bonhams offers a competitive benefits package to encourage work/life balance, including:
- Excellent medical, dental and vision insurance – HMO, EPO, PPO with FSA and HSA
- 20 days paid time off (PTO)
- 12 paid holidays and holiday break from Christmas to New Years Day
- 16 weeks fully paid parental leave and flexible work arrangements
- 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
- Life insurance with AD & D
- Short- and long-term disability
- Tuition reimbursement
- Commuter benefits (transit and parking)
- Employee assistance program (EAP)
- Professional development: free online training and expansive content library
- Employee resource groups: social club, diversity committee, mentorship program
- Sponsored socials: annual staff art exhibition, annual summer and holiday parties, monthly birthday treats, weekly breakfast
Bonhams participates in E-Verify.
Applicants who best match the position needs will be contacted.
Salary : $65,000 - $75,000
