The Facts
Phillips announced on September 17, 2026, that Henry Highley has been named worldwide head of private sales, a newly created role. Highley, who joined the auction house in 2016, previously served as head of private sales for the Americas. In his new position, he will oversee private sales operations across all categories and regions, reporting to CEO Stephen Brooks.
The Signal
The appointment signals Phillips' continued focus on expanding its private sales business, which has become an increasingly important revenue stream for auction houses as public sales face market volatility. For collectors, this move underscores the growing significance of discreet, negotiated transactions in the secondary market, particularly for high-value works where privacy and flexibility are paramount. Highley's promotion from within reflects Phillips' strategy of nurturing talent and maintaining continuity as it competes with rivals Christie's and Sotheby's for private sales market share.
- People: Henry Highley, Stephen Brooks
- Auction Houses: Phillips
The Morning Signal · Daily
Get stories like this in your inbox
The art world in one daily email — auctions, openings, and acquisitions from 90+ primary sources, distilled into a five-minute read. Independent — no marketplace, no gallery ads.
Join collectors, dealers & curators
No spam · free every morning · unsubscribe anytime
The Jobs Digest · Weekly
New art-world jobs, every Monday
The Jobs Digest rounds up the week’s new museum, gallery, and auction-house openings — with salary when disclosed. One email a week, unsubscribe anytime.
