Interim Head of Communications

About Bonhams

Bonhams is a world-renowned heritage auction house founded in 1793. Backed by its global network of auction houses spanning the US, the UK, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific, Bonhams offers the widest range of collecting categories at all price points. The auction house is internationally recognized for its leadership in Fine Art, Collector Cars, Luxury, and Iconic Private Collections, supported by flagship locations in London, New York, Paris, and Hong Kong. 
 

Renowned for its bespoke client service, exceptional expertise, and dedication to local market relationships, Bonhams presents over 1,000 sales annually across more than 60 specialist categories, uniting collectors and connoisseurs around the world. 

About the role

We are seeking an Interim Head of US Communications to provide maternity leave coverage on a 6-
month fixed-term contract. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering press
and communications campaigns for US auctions across Bonhams' three salerooms in New
York, Los Angeles, and Boston.

With a focus on the relaunch of Bonhams New York, managing PR agency relationships,
supporting strategic partnerships, and developing key collecting categories – including 20th
& 21st Century Art, Luxury, Cars, and Collectible Decorative Arts ("Classics") – this role will
play a critical part in strengthening Bonhams' market presence and brand impact in the
United States.

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead communications efforts for the relaunch of Bonhams New York, delivering a

major brand push in partnership with the Marketing Director, Head of Operations,

and US Managing Director.

• Manage the PR agency on strategic initiatives and report updates to Bonhams senior

management.

• Oversee brand activations and strategic partnerships designed to drive press and

brand awareness.

• Develop creative and compelling strategies to introduce Bonhams' brand, auction

sales, and events to new and diverse audiences locally and internationally.

• Collaborate with the Marketing team to ensure deadlines are met and strategies

remain aligned with the global team.

• Build strong relationships with department heads and specialists to proactively

develop innovative, strategic media campaigns that generate significant editorial

coverage.

• Conceptualize, research, and place stories across regional, national, and

international media outlets, including print, online, broadcast, radio, and podcasts.

• Draft press releases and creative pitches that effectively drive attention to Bonhams

US sales.

• Support Bonhams spokespeople by preparing briefing notes, talking points, and

guidance ahead of interviews.

• Manage announcements of senior executive or specialist appointments, collaborating with leadership to define communications approach.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in communications, Public Relations, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in an arts-related PR firm, creative agency, auction house, or
  major luxury brand.
• Experience working with a range of media: print, online, broadcast, podcasts, etc.
• Proactive, collaborative, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a
  high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
• Experience managing agency and partner relationships directly.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong ability to think creatively and strategically.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Prior experience in an auction house environment is a plus.

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.

Applicants who best match the position needs will be contacted.

Bonhams participates in E-Verify.