RM Sotheby’s Careers and How You Can Find Your Dream Role
If you’re passionate about classic and exotic cars, few names resonate as strongly as RM Sotheby’s. This prestigious auction house and restoration company has become a major player in the world of high-end automotive sales and restoration, offering a range of exciting career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in the adrenaline-pumping world of car auctions or have a talent for restoring rare classics, RM Sotheby’s offers rewarding career paths.
The History and Prestige of RM Sotheby’s
Founded in 1976, RM Sotheby’s has grown into the world’s leading auction house specializing in classic and collector cars. Partnering with Sotheby’s in 2015, the company elevated its status further, cementing itself as the top destination for collectors and enthusiasts looking to buy and sell rare automobiles. With a reputation for handling some of the most significant sales in automotive history, RM Sotheby’s has been responsible for record-breaking sales of iconic vehicles like Ferraris, Bugattis, and Aston Martins.
But RM Sotheby’s is not just about auctions; their restoration division, RM Auto Restoration, is equally renowned. Operating from their facility in Ontario, Canada, this division has gained acclaim for restoring some of the world’s most valuable classic cars, often preparing them for auction or private collections.
RM Sotheby’s Careers for Auctions
The auction side of RM Sotheby’s is one of the most glamorous and high-stakes areas of the automotive world. Here are some of the primary roles you can pursue within their auction business:
Auction Specialists
Auction specialists are responsible for appraising and curating vehicles for auction. These professionals work closely with sellers, collectors, and buyers to ensure that each car is accurately valued and presented. It’s a role that requires in-depth automotive knowledge, particularly about classic and exotic cars, as well as excellent communication and negotiation skills.
Client Relations Managers
Client relations managers play a crucial role in maintaining and growing RM Sotheby’s client base. They manage relationships with sellers and buyers, providing personalized service to high-net-worth individuals and collectors. This role is ideal for individuals with a passion for classic cars and a knack for building strong, long-lasting professional relationships.
Marketing and Event Coordinators
RM Sotheby’s auctions are not just about selling cars—they’re major events that draw international attention. Marketing and event coordinators are tasked with promoting these auctions, managing logistics, and ensuring that each event runs smoothly. If you have a background in marketing or event planning and a love for cars, this role could be a perfect fit.
Auctioneers
Auctioneers are the faces of RM Sotheby’s during their high-profile events. It’s a fast-paced, high-pressure role that requires quick thinking, a strong presence, and excellent communication skills. Auctioneers need to be well-versed in automotive history and market trends, as they often engage with some of the wealthiest collectors in the world.
Car Specialists
At RM Sotheby’s, car specialists play a crucial role in maintaining the company’s status as a premier auction house for classic and exotic cars. These individuals are responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and managing consignments for upcoming auctions. Car specialists are automotive experts with a deep understanding of collector cars, market trends, and industry dynamics. They often have years of experience in the field, which allows them to accurately assess a vehicle’s value and potential demand.
In addition to working closely with consignors and buyers, car specialists must possess strong negotiation skills and a keen eye for detail. They ensure that every vehicle listed for auction meets RM Sotheby’s high standards, and they often work with both private collectors and large-scale museums to curate top-tier auctions.
For those passionate about classic cars, becoming a car specialist at RM Sotheby’s offers a rewarding career path with exposure to some of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history.
RM Sotheby’s Careers at RM Auto Restoration
For those with a passion for restoring classic vehicles, RM Auto Restoration offers unparalleled opportunities to work on some of the most prestigious cars ever built. This division specializes in everything from frame-off restorations to concours-level refinishing.
Classic Car Fabricators
Fabricators at RM Auto Restoration are the artisans who bring vintage cars back to life. Whether it’s creating custom parts or restoring original components, fabricators need a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of automotive engineering and design. Skilled fabricators often have a background in metalwork, welding, or machining. There are RM Sotheby’s Careers with the shop as well!
Automotive Painters
The finishing touch on a restoration project is often the paintwork, and at RM Auto Restoration, automotive painters are responsible for ensuring that each car leaves the shop looking pristine. Painters must be skilled in color matching, surface preparation, and applying high-quality finishes that meet concours-level standards.
Restoration Technicians
Restoration technicians work on every mechanical aspect of a classic car, from engine rebuilds to electrical systems and transmissions. These technicians need to have extensive knowledge of classic and exotic car mechanics, as well as the ability to troubleshoot and restore aging systems.
Upholsterers
While mechanics and fabricators work on the exterior and engine components, upholsterers ensure that the interiors of these cars are restored to their original glory. This role requires a meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of historical materials and techniques used in classic car interiors.
Apprenticeships and Training Opportunities
RM Auto Restoration offers unique opportunities for aspiring classic car restorers through apprenticeships. These programs allow young technicians to learn the trade from experienced professionals while working on some of the world’s most valuable cars. Whether your interest lies in mechanical work, body fabrication, or upholstery, an apprenticeship at RM Auto Restoration can be the perfect stepping stone to a career in the automotive restoration industry.
How to Apply for a Job at RM Sotheby’s
If you’re interested in a career at RM Sotheby’s or RM Auto Restoration, the first step is to visit their respective websites to explore current job openings. RM Sotheby’s careers page and RM Auto Restoration’s website provide detailed information about available positions and how to apply. Whether you’re an experienced auctioneer, a seasoned restoration technician, or just starting out in the automotive world, there are roles available that match your skillset.
Why Work for RM Sotheby’s?
Working at RM Sotheby’s means being part of an organization with an unparalleled reputation in the automotive world. With decades of experience and an impressive portfolio of sales and restorations, RM Sotheby’s is a leader in the industry. Whether you’re helping a client find their dream car or restoring a piece of automotive history, a career with RM Sotheby’s offers both prestige and the chance to work on truly iconic vehicles.
Conclusion, RM Sotheby’s Careers are Out There!
If you’ve ever dreamed of working in the classic and exotic car industry, RM Sotheby’s offers a variety of career paths that could make those dreams a reality. From auction specialists and restoration technicians to marketing professionals and upholsterers, there are numerous opportunities to join one of the most prestigious organizations in the automotive world. Whether you’re looking to restore legendary cars or facilitate multi-million-dollar auctions, RM Sotheby’s careers could be your gateway to an exciting and rewarding career. If you are looking for a role at a classic or exotic car organization, check out the roles available on Classic Car Jobs.