Closes: 10th July 2023

About the Company

Dr. Jörn Günther Rare Books is the world leading dealer in medieval manuscripts and printed books. We are a small organisation based in Basel, Switzerland but we work internationally and exhibit at fine art fairs every year (primarily TEFAF in Maastricht, and Frieze Masters in London).

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our small team as a Researcher in Medieval Manuscripts.

Job Description

The Researcher is responsible for researching and writing readable, detailed, scholarly descriptions of illuminated manuscripts, miniatures, and printed books for different audiences (public and scholarly). The Researcher is additionally responsible for assisting the Managing Director in performing a wide range of activities related to the sale of artwork, promotion of the Dr. Jörn Günther Rare Books AG brand, client outreach, and office administration.

This open-ended position is based in Basel, and is 100%, with required weekend work and overtime during fair seasons.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• writing and researching object descriptions, catalogues, brochures, and online and other content;
• assisting in the preparation of company publications, including editing and communicating with the publisher;
• managing publication of art works on the website and planning content, assisting with social media;
• assisting in the preparation and execution of international art fairs and exhibitions, including travel and on-site sales;
• client outreach/follow up;
• archival work, including the digitisation of archival material, maintaining orderly digital research data;
• book transport/packing with team;
• assisting with company mailings.

Education and Experience:

The ideal candidate would have:

• A university degree to M.A. level in a relevant subject, e.g. history of art, history, In-depth knowledge the History of the Book and medieval manuscripts specifically;
• Ideally minimum 2 years’ experience working with medieval manuscript;
• Professional experience working with clients and/or stakeholders;

Skills and Abilities:

• Fluency with technology, i.e. Adobe Creative Suite, Office Suite, Mac Finder organisation, and ability to use a web CMS;
• Ability to write for different readerships, in print and digital formats (to press, scholars, clients, and potential clients);
• Good communication skills, and the ability to work well with the rest of the team and provide support as necessary;
• Excellent attention to detail even when working to tight deadlines;
• Ability to prioritise workload, problem-solve and remain calm under pressure;
• Flexibility and willingness to travel and undertake occasional evening and weekend work during fairs and special events;
• Language skills: Latin, English (native or near native), and one other modern European language (German or French preferred).

Basic Terms and Conditions

• This is a permanent full time (40 hrs/5 days/wk) position;
• Ability to work in Switzerland is preferred;
• The salary offered for this position is 6’250,- CHF a month;
• The normal working week is 40 hours, worked as 5 days a week, from 9.00 to 12.30, and 13.30-18.00;
• Out-of-hours attendance will be required at fairs and occasional events; time off in lieu will be given for these days;
• 25 days paid leave per annum plus cantonal and federal holidays;
• Probationary period of 3 months;
• Notice period of two weeks during the probationary period. Notice period is 3 months after the probation period.

To apply for this position, please send a CV, Cover letter and short English writing sample to info@guenther-rarebooks.com

Deadline: July 10^th 2023