Biography
Ron Elimelekh is the Co-Head of Sotheby’s Financial Services, serving as its Chief Operating Officer & Chief Capital Officer. Ron has led the modernization of the business through the development of a robust financial, operational, and technology infrastructure underlying the firm’s rapid and sustained growth. Ron is a financial-technology and capital markets industry veteran bringing years of seasoned perspective on organizational strategy and practical execution to enhance Sotheby’s position at the intersection of art, finance, and innovation.
Since joining Sotheby’s, Ron revamped SFS’s capital framework enabling billions in funding capacity by successfully introducing art and collectible backed loans, a nascent asset class, to the capital markets ecosystem. Notably, Ron led the launch of a first-of-its kind securitization program marking a significant milestone in the asset-backed securities market. This groundbreaking $700 million inaugural transaction attracted strong institutional investor demand, achieved the most coveted credit ratings, and earned industry awards. Under his leadership, SFS has gained unparalleled access to the capital markets, delivers the highest standard of client experience, and has developed a best-in-class lending ecosystem. These achievements have positioned the firm as the world’s leading finance company for fine art, cars, collectibles, and luxury goods.
Ron holds a Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Binghamton University. Before joining Sotheby’s, he was a senior leader at fintech pioneers OnDeck Capital and OakNorth. In previous roles, Ron led the design and implementation of capital markets strategies securing billions of dollars in funding capacity and helped guide businesses through growth stage, an initial public offering, international expansion, and other key milestones. Ron is widely connected across fintech, capital markets, and alternative asset finance.
