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Associate Gallery Director
Associate Gallery Director
West Chelsea Contemporary
Post Date: 03 Aug 2024

JOB OVERVIEW

Join our team and become an integral part of a gallery that doesn’t just showcase art; it cultivates cultural conversations. As an Associate Gallery Director, you’ll be at the forefront of defining the contemporary collections in Austin and beyond, leading exhibitions that challenge conventions and inspire dialogue. 

We are not just a gallery; we are an art-for-all experience. If you’re ready to contribute your passion for art and culture to a dynamic and forward-thinking environment, this is your opportunity to be part of something truly exceptional. 

Embrace the extraordinary – join us in shaping the future of art.

Becoming an Associate Director at West Chelsea Contemporary is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for individuals passionate about art and culture. Here are several reasons why someone might choose to become an associate gallery director:

  • Passion for Art: A deep love and appreciation for art often drive individuals to pursue a career as an associate director. Working closely with artists and their creations allows for the continuous exploration of creativity and expression.

  • Developing Impactful Collections: Associate directors have the opportunity to shape and define the success of their gallery’s sales team by placing high value artworks, and establishing strong, life-long relationships with collectors and taste-makers.

  • Cultural Influence: Associate directors contribute to the cultural landscape of their community or city. They have the power to influence and shape artistic trends, introduce new artists, and contribute to the cultural dialogue.

  • Supporting Artists: For those passionate about supporting artists, becoming an associate director allows for the promotion and advancement of talented individuals. This role involves providing a platform for artists to showcase their work, helping them gain recognition and make a living from their art.

  • Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Associate directors often have a degree of autonomy and entrepreneurial freedom. They can develop business strategies, organize events, and create partnerships to enhance the gallery’s success and reputation.

  • Networking and Connections: The role provides ample opportunities for networking with artists, collectors, curators, and other professionals in the art world. Building these connections can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and a deeper understanding of the art market.

  • Educational Initiatives: Associate directors are involved in educational outreach programs. They may organize workshops, lectures, and educational events to engage the community, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for art.

  • Contribution to Art History: By showcasing and promoting certain artists and movements, Associate directors can contribute to the broader narrative of art history. They play a role in shaping perceptions of what is culturally and historically significant in the art world.

  • Management and Leadership Skills: Associate directors develop strong management and leadership skills as they oversee the day-to-day operations of the gallery, manage staff, and handle administrative tasks. This can be personally fulfilling for individuals who enjoy leadership roles.

Overall, becoming an Associate director offers a unique blend of artistic engagement, cultural influence, and entrepreneurial opportunities, making it an attractive career path for those passionate about the arts.

 

ABOUT US:

West Chelsea Contemporary (WCC) has been established as a groundbreaking contemporary art gallery in Austin, Texas. We create museum-scale exhibitions and WOW experiences that make incredible art accessible to both seasoned and aspiring collectors. We are passionate about the life enhancing value of art for our collectors, our artists, our team, and our community.

With over 20 years of art world experience, we specialize in post war and contemporary art with an emphasis on street art and graffiti. We represent emerging and well established artists, and proudly hold in our collection a fantastic growing selection of blue-chip artists.

We are actively hiring for the position of Associate Gallery Director. The ideal candidate will be an ambitious self-starter with proven sales and sales management experience.

 

Key Responsibilities: 

The Associate Gallery Director plays a key role in supporting the sales team through the implementation of directives from the Gallery Director while also maintaining excellence and consistency in their own sales.  The Associate Director powerfully manages the gallery in the Director’s absence by coaching on our collection and sales techniques, tracking KPIs, managing their own projects, and driving for results. 

 

Required Qualifications and Attributes:

  • 3-5 years Art Sales experience is required

  • Excellent English Skills, both written and spoken

  • A passion for contemporary art–Art History or comparable degrees is a plus

  • This position is full time and requires flexible hours to staff and attend gallery events.

  • Must be highly organized, self-motivated and responsible

  • Must be able to engage in the Greater-Austin arts community and networking opportunities.

  • Managing and expanding sales of high-end primary and secondary market works of art in various media.

  • Welcoming gallery visitors and collectors, and guiding them through the exhibition and collection, as well as the advisory process in a professional manner, demonstrating excellent customer service and communication throughout.

  • Dealing with valuable art and high net-worth clients. Interacting with collectors and the general public in person, over the phone, by email.

  • Maintain strong relationships with existing collectors, concierges, and friends of the gallery.

  • Build new relationships through networking, outreach, and referrals.

  • Meet monthly personal and team sales goals.

  • Experience cold calling and creating appointments

  • Networking experience and enthusiasm is a must

  • Comfortable in collectors’ homes for private viewings, in gallery for viewings, and generating interest in the gallery through relationship building.

  • Managing CRM systems; experience with ArtCloud a plus.

  • Fluent and elevated communication via email, phone call and in person with all collectors and guests.

  • Strong network of established contacts within the region and national art scene is a plus.

  • Arts education is a plus

  • B2B sales is a plus

 

Responsible for:

· Operates as Art Consultant contributing to sales goal

· Managing the Gallery in the Director’s absence

· Daily Sales/Weekly Reporting to Gallery Director

· Event Support

· Community Building, Reviews, and Key Relationships

· Maintains excellent customer service and retention

Pay: Partial salary and partial draw against commission

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: bi-weekly stipend plus monthly commission and bonuses

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance

  • Health insurance

  • Paid time off

  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • Weekends required

Supplemental pay types:

  • Bonus pay

  • Commission pay

Experience:

  • Sales Experience: 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

JOB DETAILS

Location
Austin, USA

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