Richard Watkins has rejoined the Stanley Gibbons Group plc as Head of Auctions.
Richard has wide ranging experience at a senior level in both the philatelic dealing and auction worlds. He was with Stanley Gibbons for nearly 20 years, the last six as Philatelic Director. He left in 1996 to join Christie’s and has since held senior positions at Spink (which incorporated Christie’s stamp department) and Grosvenor Auctions, where he was Managing Director.
Commenting on Richard Watkins’ appointment Donal Duff, Chief Operating Officer of Stanley Gibbons said:
‘Richard is a well known and respected figure and will be a valuable addition to the company, bringing senior level experience of both philatelic dealing and auctioneering. He will lead the development of the Group’s auctions business, including the development of the trading platform which forms part of the company’s long term e-commerce plans.’
Robert Swain joins the Group as Publisher. He has a wealth of management experience in publishing, principally at Newsquest Media Group, where his role included responsibility for over 90 publications – from concept to delivery.
Donal Duff commented:
‘We are delighted to welcome Robert to Stanley Gibbons. His experience of digital asset management systems during his time with one of the UK’s largest regional publishers of newspapers and journals will be utilised to develop the digital strategy for the publications arm of the Group.’
Alongside these external appointments, internal changes include the appointment of Tony Grodecki as Business Development Director and the promotion of Guy Barrett to Group Head of IT.
‘Tony joined us from the acquisition of the Benham Group last year. He will retain his responsibility as Managing Director of the Benham Group and will bring his extensive experience of the collectibles market to bear on our business development strategy. Guy joined Stanley Gibbons in 2009. He has played a pivotal role in the introduction of the STEP digital asset management system and the website development project.’ said Duff.
www.stanleygibbons.com