Christie’s is welcoming the new year with changes to its governance structure effective 1st January 2017. Guillaume Cerutti has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer on the recommendation of Patricia Barbizet and with the full support of the Pinault family. Mr. Pinault assumes the role of Chairman of the Board and Mme. Barbizet is appointed Vice Chairman.

Mr. Cerutti, currently is the President of Christie’s Europe, Middle East, Russia and India (EMERI) operations. He has been operating for over a decade as a senior executive in the art auction world and within the cultural industry for over twenty years.

Christie’s global executive leadership team remains in place with Stephen Brooks continuing as Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Global President Jussi Pylkkänen is also continuing in his role working directly with leading collectors, shaping the curation and sales strategies.

Patricia Barbizet commented: “As we conclude a successful year, the time is right to adapt our structure and further enhance the tremendous work we have done to make the company more efficient, creative and collaborative. I believe Guillaume’s experience and deep knowledge of the art world will bring Christie’s one more step forward.”

Guillaume Cerutti said: “It is a great honour to take forward the company’s strategic initiatives and continue the successful work that have been implemented under Patricia’s tutorship. At year-end, Christie’s continues to lead the market globally, and is poised for continued success.”

François Pinault said: “Patricia and I will provide Guillaume our continuous support so Christie’s can thrive for the greatest benefit of its clients, its specialist community, its employees and all art connoisseurs.”