What are the responsibilities and job description for the Credit Controller position at Bonhams?
About Bonhams
Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories, including motor cars, paintings, jewelry, and entertainment memorabilia.
Our employees are passionate about their work, and we pride ourselves on a bespoke approach that aims to make every client feel important. It is an exciting time for our business and our global leadership team of art world professionals are now ready to for a People focused team to help them develop their talent strategy, strengthen our people brand globally, build organizational capability and drive process improvement.
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.
About the Role
We are seeking a Credit Controller to join our dynamic and fast-paced team, responsible for managing buyer payments at auction and handling the various processes and inquiries that arise. Bonhams' Finance department takes pride in a bespoke, client-centric approach, ensuring every client—both external (buyers and vendors) and internal (colleagues worldwide)—feels valued.
In this role, you will engage with clients from around the world, requiring strong communication skills and fluency in English and either French or Mandarin. You will oversee payment collections for a variety of sales across the U.S. while also supporting Bonhams' global network. The ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and communicate confidently with international buyers is essential.
If you thrive in a high-energy environment and excel at building relationships while ensuring timely payments, we encourage you to apply.
Key Tasks & Responsibilities
In your role as Credit Controller you will be required to carry out the following:
- Maintain and update all customer accounts and records accurately on a regular basis
- Register and authorize bidders for upcoming sales
- Assist Client Services with collection of payments and invoices from successful bidders
- Approve and process Change of Buyer adjustments
- Ensure all compliance requirements are met for successful bidders
- Provide updates to Specialist Departments regarding their sales
- Deposit and reconcile incoming wire transfers
- Resolve third party payment issues raised by buyers and departments
- Process non-standard post sales/private sale invoices
- Process cancelled sales and issue buyer refunds
- Support clients and departments in query handling and escalate when necessary
- Coordinate extended payment arrangements and collection of outstanding balances
- Be available for occasional weekend work and attendance at offsite sales
- Safeguard the security and confidentiality of client information at all times
Key Skills & Attributes
- Two-three years of direct experience
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills both written and oral
- Proficiency with PC applications including Microsoft Suite
- Ability to effectively manage competing priorities and deadlines
- Finance administration experience is an advantage
- Excellent time management and organization skills
- Flexibility including supporting team members
Addition Desired Qualities
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related discipline is preferred
- Fluency in multiple languages is a plus, Mandarin preferred
- Willingness to assist with ad-hoc duties for colleagues globally and when colleagues are out of office
What We Offer
In addition to an active and progressive work environment, Bonhams offers a competitive benefits package to encourage work/life balance, including:
- Excellent medical, dental and vision insurance – HMO, EPO, PPO with FSA and HSA
- 20 days paid time off (PTO)
- 12 paid holidays and holiday break from Christmas to New Years Day
- 16 weeks fully paid parental leave and flexible work arrangements
- 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
- Life insurance with AD&D
- Short- and long-term disability
- Paid cellphone and data service
- Tuition reimbursement
- Commuter benefits (transit and parking)
- Employee assistance program (EAP)
- Professional development: free online training and expansive content library
- Employee resource groups: social club, diversity committee, mentorship program
- Sponsored socials: annual staff art exhibition, annual summer and holiday parties, monthly birthday treats, weekly breakfast
Bonhams participates in E-Verify.
Applicants who best match the position needs will be contacted.