Sotheby’s has hired the former Berlin gallerist Martin Klosterfelde as a senior director and senior specialist. He will join Sotheby’s European Contemporary Art team in London.

In the Summer of 2013 Klosterfelde made a surprise career change by closing his eponymous gallery after 18 years and 104 exhibitions to join Phillips to become director and international art specialist at the auction house’s Berlin office.

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“Renowned gallery owner Martin Klosterfelde brings with him a wealth of expertise, experience and international client relationships, especially in German speaking Europe, Alex Branczik, head of contemporary Art for Europe said in a statement. “Sotheby’s and the whole Contemporary Art team are thrilled to welcome him on board.”

During his career as a gallerist Klosterfelde represented renowned artists including Christian Jankowski, Hanne Darboven, Matt Mulican, Elmgreen & Dragset, and Lawrence Weiner.

Klosterfelde was a regular participant at international art fairs such as Art Basel, FIAC, Frieze, Art Basel Miami Beach, Independent, and the Armory Show. He was also a co-founder of Berlin’s Gallery Weekend.

Sotheby’s hopes that Klosterfelde will be able to use his wealth of knowledge, experience, and extensive network of contacts to strengthen their auction business in the lucrative German-speaking European market, which encompasses Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.

In a press release Sotheby’s indicated that Klosterfelde’s ability to source and acquire works of contemporary art was a deciding factor in the auction house’s decision to lure him away from Phillips.

In London Klosterfelde will work closely with Bastienne Leuthe, Sotheby’s newly recently appointed senior director and head of contemporary art, Germany.

Sotheby’s also revealed that Klosterfelde completed his training as an auctioneer this year, raising the possibility of seeing him at the podium.

The appointment comes against the backdrop of disappointing auction results and a prolonged phase of restructuring and high profile departures.