Simon de Pury is one of the art world’s leading figures, renowned for his deep and long-standing knowledge of the global marketplace. He is Chairman and Chief Auctioneer of Phillips de Pury & Company, and still owns a significant share in the business after having sold the majority in October 2008 to the Mercury Group, Russia's largest luxury retail company. Regarded as one of the world’s best, and best-known, auctioneers, Mr. de Pury’s ability at the podium is legendary. He generates excitement in the saleroom, displays great charm and wit, and can conduct sales in four languages – English, French, German and Italian. 

Formerly Vice President of Condé Nast International, Bernd Runge was responsible for the performance and development of all Condé Nast titles in Germany and Russia as well as in Brazil, Greece, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, South Africa and Sweden. A key figure in the strategic development of one of the world’s leading shelter and lifestyle magazine publishing companies, Bernd Runge engineered the successful launch of more than 20 magazines in 10 years.