Pros
Junior staff and members of 'support' departments are amazing. The place wouldn't run without them. Great artwork to see if you can unchain yourself from your desk.
Cons
Where to begin.... Sotheby's has always had its issues but the last few years have really been on another level. COVID has either brought out the best in people, or the worst, and my word has it brought out the worst in this company. Not only was the potential of being made redundant being held over our heads, we also had our pay cut when COVID first hit, although ultimately our work loads increased. The company was already stagnant and behind the times with their systems and technology, but COVID really stuck the dagger in. If something's broken, don't bother trying to fix it. You will just be ignored and have to find manual work arounds. The culture is absolutely toxic. You are constantly kept in a state of fear through secretive, nasty behaviour and gossip constantly being spread (although this is most likely the symptom of an unhappy work force). Terrible, if any, communication from senior management. Radio silence most of the time when there is clearly huge issues within the fundamental running of the company. I have never experienced a work force so angry and upset. Good luck if you need any support if you are going through any issues as the company doesn't find it acceptable for you to have a personal life. We all live and breathe Sotheby's and are paid a pittance for the pleasure. Asking your workforce to attend 'mental health seminars' to show you how to better balance your workload is an insult when you are working 10 hour (or more) days with no overtime, simply because the company will not employ any extra staff despite the obvious need for them. Management are also well aware that staff are suffering mentally, but instead of addressing the issues would rather let you work yourself to the bone and then go on sick leave. You'll then have a fun conversation of 'wHaT hApPeNeD??' a little while later. There is also little to no movement career wise unless you are well connected. It doesn't matter how good at your job you are. Due to the incompetencies of the company, people are leaving by the boat load and I truly feel sorry for those who are left. Soon enough, there will be no one left to actually put on sales. The ship is absolutely rudderless. My advice to anyone thinking of going to Sotheby's or is still there, go somewhere that will appreciate you.