Bonhams, one of the world’s oldest and most recognisable auction houses, has changed hands once again. The 231-year-old firm has been acquired by Pemberton Asset Management, marking the end of its seven-year ownership by private equity group Epiris and the start of a new phase under fresh leadership.
The sale, for an undisclosed sum, comes two years after Epiris explored a public listing with a proposed $1 billion valuation. During its tenure, Epiris oversaw a period of rapid growth and consolidation, acquiring regional specialists such as Bukowskis in Sweden and Skinner in the US, and pushing Bonhams further into the international mid-market alongside its long-standing fine art and motor car divisions.
Under its new owners, Bonhams has appointed Seth Johnson as Chief Executive Officer, Liese Thomas as Chief Financial Officer, and Jennifer Babington as Chief Operating Officer. The incoming team, whose backgrounds lie outside the art and luxury sectors, are described by Bonhams as having a ‘proven track record of serving high-value customers and steering through periods of change.’ They replace outgoing CEO Chabi Nouri and Chief Commercial Officer Céline Assimon, both of whom joined within the past two years.
Chairman Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard described the partnership with Pemberton as a decisive step for the business: ‘Bonhams has achieved significant growth and sustained profitability in recent years. The partnership with Pemberton and new leadership team strengthens our market position and supports our long-term ambitions.’
Founded in 1793, Bonhams has evolved from a London fine art auctioneer into a global network with more than 60 specialist departments covering everything from jewellery and wine to historic motor cars.
