As part of the shift in responsibilities involved in Marc Porter’s being named Chairman of Christie’s Americas, there have been other moves within the international organization. Porter answered our questions about what practical day-to-day effects his new role would have on the company:

I will be spending more time with our top clients, including private collectors, institutions and professional advisors and continue in my role as the President of Christie’s Japan, where I travel frequently. Stephen Lash will stay fully engaged and won’t be stepping back from his business getting.  I’ve been handing over my purely managerial responsibilities to our International Managing Director for the past year or so.  Also, of course, Edward Dolman, the CEO, will continue his regular travel to the US.

Christie’s has spent the past 10 years evolving from a regionally independent company to a globally articulated corporation. That means Porter has shared his operational role for the last several years with Lisa King, the firm’s International Managing Director. But now Ms. King is taking on a new role and Andrew Foster–who was the head of Asian operations–will step up into her former role. Christie’s spokesman, Toby Usnik summarizes the moves:

• Lisa King has been appointed as Group International Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Christie’s International, with responsibility for the leadership and delivery of the group’s business plan.

• Andy Foster has been appointed as International Managing Director, Auction & Private Sales.

• To strengthen the business-getting capability of our Chairman’s offices in Asia, François Curiel has been appointed as President, Asia and will relocate to Hong Kong to fulfil this role.  He will continue as International Head of the Jewellery Department.

• Ken Yeh, currently Deputy Chairman Asia, has been appointed to Chairman, Asia.  Theow Tow has been appointed as Honorary Chairman, Asia.

The relocation of Francois Curiel to Hong Kong is a telling commentary on the shape of the global jewelry market and the importance Christie’s places on Asian buyers going forward.