OCCUPATION: RETAIL DIRECTOR--INTERNATIONAL ART GALLERY

Name: Lynn Walker

Company: Galleri Orrefors & Kosta Boda, Costa Mesa

Thumbs up: “Working in this field allows me to utilize both my business skills and my artistic sense. You develop a whole new perspective on glassmaking when you witness this 3,500-year-old tradition up close. It’s fascinating to feel the heat rise from an oven or crucible full of red-hot molten glass and witness its transformation from liquid the consistency of syrup to a brilliantly polished crystal object. I encourage my customers to visit a glass-blowing shop or factory to see the process for themselves.”

Thumbs down: “For some, the extra hours and travel could be a potential drawback. But for me, they are a plus.”

Next step: “To expand the network of Swedish glass collectors in the United States. To do this we need to dispel the myth that collecting is only for the wealthy. We are working to create opportunities for consumers to become informed collectors through artists’ events.”

Advice: “The ability to understand and appreciate the various ways other countries do business is very important. At the same time, there will be many things that the company you work for will need to learn from you about doing business in America. An open mind and good communication skills are important.”

Salary range: Gallery retail directors earn from $20,000 to $80,000, depending on experience and their employer.

Hours: Typically 40 to 70 per week with evenings and weekends occasionally spent at special events or traveling.

Educational and training requirements: Most gallery retail directors have at least a bachelor’s degree in business or finance combined with a background in art. Many universities offer courses in international business and some offer it as a major. The ability to speak a second language is helpful.

Expected demand: Steady. With the economy becoming increasingly global, more artisans and gallery owners are becoming interested in entering the U.S. market.

Job description: “My position is somewhat unique because I work for an international company, which designs our product. In addition to the operational aspects of running a gallery, I handle marketing, advertising and promotions. I also help introduce Swedish design culture to the United States by planning special events featuring our artisans’ work. I am often asked to select items from the collection to serve as golf and tennis tournament awards and as corporate gifts. I also travel back and forth to Sweden to procure special art glass for our collectors.”

For more information: Contact the American Graduate School of International Management (602) 978-7011.