Sophie Murphy
London
Summary
Accomplished fine art sales director with a robust track record in target achievements across the US, European, and Middle East markets. Demonstrates exceptional relationship building and networking capabilities, complemented by strategic partnerships with renowned entities such as Soho House and The Twenty Two. Offers in depth knowledge in art advisory within both primary and secondary markets, with a focus on contemporary and post-war art. Skilled in public speaking, auctioneering, and leading specialised tours at museums and galleries. Possesses a strong network of artists from emerging to established levels, excelling in artist scouting and discovery. Experienced in front of house management, exhibition curation, project management, international logistics and art handling and installation. Committed to fostering community art projects and charity partnerships while aiming to further enhance gallery presence through innovative strategies and art fairs.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work history
Director of Sales; Associate Director
Saatchi Yates
London
2023.05 - Current
- Client management and international relationship building; special focus on US, European and Middle East markets
- Fine art sales; generated £1.2m revenue in 18 months
- Sourcing blue-chip consignments for specialised exhibitions & private sales
- Museum & foundation relationship development (The Getty, The Whitney, American Academy in Rome; et al)
- Identified new business opportunities internationally, driving gallery expansion - international pop-up exhibitions; production & strategy
- Front of house management & lead tour guide
- Art fair applications, logistics, and strategy
- Event production & strategic partnerships (SoHo House x SY at Venice Biennale; Saatchi Yates x Floating Museum at the Grand Prix)
Art Advisor & Independent Curator
Sophie Murphy LDA, Taproot Art
Global, Dublin (IE), New York (US), Lisbon (PT)
2017.09 - Current
- Relationship building and networking, art advisory
- Curated and produced popup exhibitions internationally, regularly showcasing artists Peter Doyle, Jay Miriam, Blaise Cepis, Shane Berkery et al
- Produced and developed public events for enhanced community engagement including annual art auctions raising thousands in aid of homeless charities
- International art fair application and participation (ARCO Lisbon; etc)
Marketing Associate
Cohen & Company
New York City
2019.04 - 2022.01
- Executed digital marketing initiatives to improve online presence and visibility.
- Conducted comprehensive market research to understand consumer behaviour better.
- Oversaw online advertising campaigns; improved click-through rates significantly.
Marketing Coordinator, Teaching Assistant
Brooklyn Institute for Social Research
New York City
2016.10 - 2017.10
- Assisted teaching graduate level specialised philosopher courses, executed at Barnard College
- Created and developed the first philosophy podcast for BISR
- Developed marketing campaigns and conducted research
Radio Host
Dublin City FM
Dublin
2015.09 - 2016.10
- Hosted & produced two radio shows weekly:
A) focus on philosophy, interviewing some of the worlds leading philosophers from NYU, Oxford, Trinity College, etc.)
B) focus on fine art, interviewing female artists including Dorothy cross, Grace Weir, Emma Stern, Jay Miriam
Education
Master of Arts - Philosophy
Trinity College
Dublin /2010 - /2014
Master of Science - Interactive Media
Trinity College
Dublin /2014 - /2015
Disruptive Strategy Marketing
University of Oxford
Remote /2020 - /2020
Leaving Certificate
Mount Anville P
DublinSkills
- Fine Art Sales acumen; target achievements
- Relationship building and networking expertise; strong focus in US, European and Middle East markets
- Art advisory - Primary & Secondary market expertise;
- In depth fine art/ art history knowledge; focus on contemporary & post war
- Strategic partner relationships (Soho House, The Twenty Two, Quintessentially, et al,)
- Public speaking expertise; Auctioneering, speeches & specialised tours at museums/galleries
- Strong network of artists ranging from emerging to established; artist scouting & discovery
- Front of House (FOH) management & lead tour guide -personable demeanour
- Art handling & installation; International logistics and transportation
- Exhibition / gallery curation
- Project and event management
- Community art projects & charity partnerships
Affiliations
- Distance running, DJing, vintage sourcing, reading, philosophy, science, fine art, writing podcasting/radio, socialising, party/event production, interior design, volunteering
Certification
Certified Drama Teacher (RIAM)
Full Irish Driving license
Languages
English
Native
Spanish
Upper intermediate
Accomplishments
30 half marathons in 30 months
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Director of Sales; Associate Director
Saatchi Yates
2023.05 - Current
Marketing Associate
Cohen & Company
2019.04 - 2022.01
Art Advisor & Independent Curator
Sophie Murphy LDA, Taproot Art
2017.09 - Current
Marketing Coordinator, Teaching Assistant
Brooklyn Institute for Social Research
2016.10 - 2017.10
Radio Host
Dublin City FM
2015.09 - 2016.10
Master of Arts - Philosophy
Trinity College
/2010 - /2014
Master of Science - Interactive Media
Trinity College
/2014 - /2015
Disruptive Strategy Marketing
University of Oxford
/2020 - /2020
Leaving Certificate
Mount Anville P