Added to My Enquiry

My Enquiry (0)

No artwork has been selected.
Please choose an artwork to enquire.

              Enquiry Submitted

              Thank you for your enquiry and interest in our artists’ work. A member of the gallery team will respond shortly.

              000%

              Southern Guild warehouse, Cape Town
              Editiorial
              Join the Southern Guild Team: Hiring New Head of Supply Chain & Logistics

              25 Mar 2026 (4 min) read

              We’re looking for a Head of Supply Chain & Logistics to join us at Southern Guild - someone who cares deeply about how artworks move through the world. From coordinating global logistics to supporting exhibitions and client deliveries, this role is all about bringing together precision, trust, and a genuine respect for the work we share.

              Please read the full job description below and get in touch if you think you'd be a good fit.

              We are looking for a Head of Supply Chain & Logistics with a deep appreciation for art and design, capable of managing high-net-worth client relationships and complex global logistics (ATA Carnets, specialised art handling, and international fair coordination). The Head of Supply Chain & Logistics will lead and manage all incoming and outgoing shipments of artwork, ensuring safe, timely, and cost-effective transport and handling. Oversee packing, crating, customs, insurance, courier relations, inventory movement, and shipping staff to protect artworks and support fairs, exhibitions, loans, and sales.

              KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

              Art Fairs, Exhibitions, Special Projects & Client Shipments:

              • Oversee all logistics for incoming/outgoing artwork (local, national, international), including packing, crating, labelling, transit, and tracking.
              • Coordinate with freight forwarders, registrars, exhibitions, curators, conservators, installers, and external lenders to schedule transport and meet timelines.
              • Ensure proper insurance coverage, prepare insurance valuations, and coordinate claims when needed.
              • Schedule and manage shipping/handling staff and contractors; maintain staffing for installs and deinstalls, manage live storage, and manage pre- and post-fair and exhibition logistics.
              • Prepare and distribute exhibition & fair guides, internally and to external suppliers.
              • Ensure compliance with legal, customs, and international transport regulations (CITES, cultural property laws where applicable).

              Supplier and Stakeholder Relationship Management:

              • Manage relationships with existing freight forwarders, carriers, art handlers, couriers, customs brokers, and engage new suppliers as needed.
              • Negotiate rates and service agreements with suppliers.
              • Engage with clients and other relevant stakeholders (internal and external) to present logistics options and manage the delivery and installation of artwork.
              Group Show, 2025 - Kamyar Bineshtarigh - Southern Guild Cape Town
              Thresholds, 2025 - Southern Guild Cape Town
              Prev

              Logistics & Inventory Management:

              • Prepare and review shipping documentation: bills of lading, commercial invoices, import/export paperwork, and customs declarations.
              • Maintain and update shipment tracking systems, inventory movement logs, and condition report records.
              • Prepare and manage logistics budgets for fairs, exhibitions and projects.
              • Manage shipping budget, approve expenditures, and report on cost-per-shipment and other logistics KPIs.
              • Upload relevant customs and shipping documents to inventory system and company server.
              • Manage inventory in off-site storage facilities and implement best practises for storage of inventory and manage the release of inventory, including filing all relevant documentation
              • Check all shipping and logistics invoices are in order and query incorrect charges with suppliers if necessary.
              • Oversee or authorise packing/crating designs and materials; ensure environmental and security standards in storage and transit (temperature, humidity, vibration protection).
              • Conduct risk assessments and implement loss-prevention and emergency response procedures.
              • Develop and implement shipping procedures, handling protocols, and condition-report standards specific to fine art.
              • Lead continuous improvement projects to increase efficiency, reduce damage rates, and optimise costs.


              Position Requirements:

              • Degree in arts administration, logistics, museum studies, business, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience). A BCom in Supply Chain/ Operations/ Logistics is preferable.
              • 5+ years of experience in art handling, shipping/logistics, or collections management in galleries, museums, or fine-art logistics firms; 2+ years in a supervisory role preferred.
              • Strong knowledge of fine art packing/crating techniques, condition reporting, and conservation-aware handling.
              • Familiarity with international customs, import/export law, and insurance for artworks.
              • Familiarity with shipping and logistics within the USA/ USA import and export formalities
              • Proven vendor management and negotiation skills.
              • Excellent organisational, communication, and project-management skills; ability to coordinate multiple concurrent moves.
              • Experience with inventory/shipping software; proficiency in Microsoft Office and shipment tracking tools. Intermediate or Advanced Excel and PowerPoint needed
              • Valid driver’s license.
              • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
              • Physical ability to oversee and occasionally perform manual handling tasks; understanding of health & safety procedures.
              • Meticulous attention to detail and respect for provenance and condition.
              • Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage authentically with diverse stakeholders (clients, artists, lenders, customs officials).
              • Strong ability to work as part of a team, and the ability to plan, lead and motivate.
              • Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
              • Willingness to work overtime and across time zones as required.
              • Ability to problem solve, multitask, and work under pressure.
              • Nimble and adaptive thinking.
              • Fastidious attention to detail, record keeping and accuracy.
              • Independent working methods requiring decision-making, responsibility, and accountability.
              • A commitment to confidentiality at all times, both within the organisation and outside of it, in perpetuity.
              • Big picture thinking with an understanding of the overall brand identities and goals and a strong desire to continue to grow and build on these goals.

              HOW TO APPLY:

              Please email your submission (including a cover letter and your CV) to [email protected] with the following subject line:
              SG RECRUITING | Head of Supply Chain & Logistics | Applicant Name


              NOTE: Due to the high volume of applicants, if you do not receive a response from us within two weeks of submission, unfortunately we will not be proceeding further with your application. Thank you and good luck!