Sotheby’s CEO William Ruprecht has announced that he will be stepping down from his position at the auction house, following a nearly year-long battle over control against investor Dan Loeb.  “The last few years have been the most successful in the company’s history,” Ruprecht said in a statement.  “I am comfortable and confident saying Sotheby’s is well positioned for the next chapter of its success and I will do all I can to contribute to a smooth leadership transition.” (more…)