Imogen Gurton

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Phillips Auctioneers

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

Since leaving Exeter, I’ve been working at Phillips, the international auction house, where I’ve gained hands-on experience in client services and auction operations. I initially joined as a Gallery Invigilator, supporting previews and sales by managing visitor experience, safeguarding high-value artworks, and responding to client enquiries while coordinating closely with specialists and client services teams.

I am now working as a Client Services Coordinator, managing client accounts across internal systems, handling high-volume client enquiries, and coordinating auction registrations and event logistics. My role also involves supporting live and online auctions, assisting with artwork collections and deliveries, managing shipments and catalogue inventory, and overseeing administrative tasks such as ticketing, memberships, and office operations. Overall, I’m currently developing strong client-facing, operational, and organisational skills within a fast-paced, detail-driven environment.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I chose this career because it allows me to combine strong organisational and client-facing skills with a genuine interest in the arts and cultural sector. Working within an auction house gives me exposure to the commercial and operational side of the art world, while still being closely connected to artworks, specialists, and collectors. It’s an environment where attention to detail, clear communication, and professionalism really matter, which strongly appeals to me.

What I enjoy most about my work is the variety and pace. No two days are the same, and I like being part of a team that delivers high-profile auctions and events from behind the scenes. I particularly enjoy interacting with clients, solving problems quickly, and contributing to the smooth running of auctions and gallery operations. Being trusted with responsibility in a fast-moving, high-value setting is both motivating and rewarding.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was Social Secretary in my third and final year for the Squash & Racketball Club. I was also a member of the Liberal Arts Society, Ballroom & Latin Society and Body Society.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

What I enjoyed most about my programme was the wide variety of modules that I took – enabling me to study subjects I never had the opportunity to do so before in a formal academic setting. Then the biggest highlight was when I received a Frist for my Dissertation! A close second would be getting voted as Social Secretary.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

The thing I enjoyed most about studying at Exeter was definitely the campus, the city and surrounding areas. There are so many hidden gems in Devon, as well as lovely cafes and restaurants in town!

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

The main reason I chose Exeter is because when I visited I could see myself there – despite it being torrential rain, I absolutely fell in love with the campus and city. It also ticked many of my boxes: campus close to town, choice of catered and self-catered halls, student areas in town to live in second and third year and being top ranking for my course.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

The pivotal thing my degree taught me was the ability to adapt communication styles between my different modules, problem-solving and managing different modes of thinking and perspectives.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

My biggest piece of advice is to be persistent in chasing as much experience as you can – it shows a readiness to learn and passion for the sector, as well as good work ethic.

What are your plans for the future?

To continue progressing my career!