Christie's Senior Wine Specialist

About Christie's

Founded in London in 1766 by James Christie, Christie’s is a leading international auction house whose heritage spans fine art, decorative arts, jewellery and exceptional collectibles. Through auctions, private sales and digital platforms, it connects collectors with remarkable objects and the expertise that brings their histories to life. As an employer, Christie’s offers career paths across specialist departments, client services, marketing, technology and operations within a global, culturally rich environment. Its work calls for intellectual curiosity, discretion and meticulous attention to detail, appealing to professionals who value scholarship, commercial acumen and the exacting standards of the international art and luxury markets.

Role & Responsibilities

• Source, evaluate, price, and secure wine consignments for domestic and international auctions.
• Arrange and coordinate on-site client visits and collection pack-ups.
• Conduct regular warehouse visits and inspections, entering information into Christie’s cataloguing databases.
• Manage the full auction lifecycle, including coordinating lot photography and working with marketing and creative teams on auction initiatives.
• Write and prepare catalogue essays and producer headers.
• Build and cultivate long-term relationships with novice and experienced wine collectors, local trade clients, and producers; organize and attend networking tastings and dinner events.
• Engage with Client Strategy and France representatives to develop regional programming and target consignments.
• Negotiate competitive deals that are compelling to sellers and financially sound for the company.
• Follow existing processes and approval matrices when structuring and negotiating deals.
• Act as the contact specialist for France and inspect consignments delivered directly to the Paris warehouse facilities.

Qualifications

• At least 6 years of professional experience in a comparable spirits-related role, preferably in auctions, with sound knowledge of current market pricing and authentication trends.
• WSET Advanced Certification (L3), USPAP, or comparable education preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of domestic and international client relationship management.
• Ability to lead by example and work collaboratively across functions in a large organization.
• Demonstrated ability to execute professional valuations and manage commercial-term negotiations.
• Project management skills, accountability for the full sale process, and ability to prioritize multiple deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including superior written and spoken communication.
• Discretion and ability to handle confidential information.
• Strong attention to detail and follow-up skills.
• Fluency in French and English.

Skills

Experience

At least 6 years of professional experience in a comparable spirits-related role, preferably in auctions.

Education

WSET Advanced Certification (L3), USPAP, or comparable education preferred.

Culture

Christie’s workplace culture centres on specialist expertise, intellectual curiosity and a shared appreciation for art and exceptional objects, with discretion and attentive client service shaping its professional environment. Its international auction business brings together specialists and colleagues across disciplines, combining a distinguished heritage with an evolving approach to digital engagement and the global art market.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.