Helena Newman has been appointed Chairman of Sotheby’s Europe, a role she will assume alongside her current position as co-Head worldwide of Impressionist and Modern Art.

Newman, who has been with Sotheby’s since 1988, has for many years been at the forefront of the global expansion of the impressionist and modern art market, driving Sotheby's leadership position in this field. 

She was recently auctioneer for Sotheby’s highly successful London sale of Impressionist and Modern Art, the first time a woman has taken an evening sale since 1990.

As European Chairman, Helena will assume responsibility alongside fellow Chairmen Oliver Barker, Mario Tavella and Philipp Württemberg to lead and develop Sotheby’s client relationships, business and consignment winning strategy across Europe. 

She will also continue to lead the Impressionist and Modern Art team together with her New York-based colleague, Simon Shaw, co-Head worldwide of Impressionist and Modern Art.

Maarten ten Holder, Sotheby’s Managing Director for Europe, said: “I am thrilled to see Helena take on this additional position at the helm of our European organisation. She will bring to the role as Chairman not only the experience of 28 highly successful years at Sotheby’s, but also an unparalleled depth of expertise and relationships in the field of impressionist and modern art, where she has been key, both to our long-standing leadership in the field and to many historic moments and landmark sales. Helena will be a key player in driving both our business and strategy in Europe whilst continuing to co-head our global impressionist and modern art business.”