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CIBJO Re-Elects Leadership and Board of Directors

Sep 08, 2026, 11:51 PM
The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) has reaffirmed its leadership structure following its significant Centenary Congress. The organization's General Assembly saw the uncontested re-election of its president, along with key vice-presidents and the chief financial officer. Furthermore, a diverse new Board of Directors was appointed, encompassing experts from various international regions. These decisions lay the groundwork for CIBJO's ongoing strategic direction and operational oversight within the global jewelry sector.

Guiding the Future: CIBJO's Renewed Mandate for Global Jewellery Excellence

Leadership Continuity: President Cavalieri's Unanimous Re-election

At the recent Centenary Congress, the CIBJO General Assembly demonstrated strong confidence in its existing leadership by unanimously re-electing Gaetano Cavalieri as the president of the World Jewellery Confederation. This decision underscores a continued commitment to his vision and guidance for the organization's future endeavors, ensuring stability and consistent direction.

Reaffirming Key Executive Roles

Beyond the presidency, the General Assembly also confirmed the re-election of the three incumbent vice-presidents: Jonathan Kendall, Kenneth Scarratt, and Pramod Agrawal. Additionally, Marc-Alain Christen was reinstated as treasurer and chief financial officer, maintaining continuity in critical financial and executive functions for CIBJO.

Introducing the New Board of Directors

A significant outcome of the General Assembly was the approval of a new Board of Directors. This diverse group includes distinguished individuals such as Charles Abouchar (Switzerland), Nilam Alawdeen (Japan), Uri Ariel (Canada), Vaishali Banerjee (India), Moti Besser (Israel), Kirit Bhai Bhansali (India), Jacques C. Branellec (the Philippines), Bruce Bridges (the United States), Marco Carniello (Italy), Victor Chan (Hong Kong/China), Anouchka Didier Mansour (France), John Henn (the United Kingdom), Guido Grohmann (Germany), Wesley Hunt (the United Kingdom), Noora Jamsheer (the Kingdom of Bahrain), Patrick Loetscher (Switzerland), Francesca Manfredi (Italy), John Mulligan (the United Kingdom), Nicholas Paspaley (Australia), Pritesh Patel (the United States), Bernadette Pinet Quoc (France), Sumed Prasongpongchai (Thailand), Mehul Shah (India), Alice Vanni (Italy), and Kent Wong (Hong Kong/China). Their collective expertise is poised to steer CIBJO's strategic initiatives.

Strategic Appointments: Shaping CIBJO's Operational Framework

Following the Board's approval, several critical officer appointments were made to various councils, sectors, and commissions. These appointments include members of the President's Council, such as Gaetano Cavalieri, Simon Chan, and Sara Yood, among others. The Legal Committee will be led by Marc-Alain Christen, Udi Sheintal, and Sara Yood, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.

Sectoral Leadership and Commission Expertise

CIBJO's operational structure is further defined by its sectors and commissions, each headed by specialist leaders. Kenneth Scarratt, for instance, will preside over Sector A: Gem Materials, Trade and Laboratories, with Thomas Lind and Tom Moses as Vice Presidents. John Henn will lead Sector B: Jewellery Distribution. Alessia Crivelli is appointed President of Sector C: Manufacturing, Technology and Precious Metals. Specialized commissions like the Coloured Stone Commission, Diamond Commission, Pearl Commission, Gemmological Commission, Precious Metals Commission, Marketing & Education Commission, Ethics Commission, and Sustainable Development Commission also received new leadership, reflecting CIBJO's comprehensive approach to industry governance.

Innovation and Governance Through Committees and Working Groups

Innovation and effective governance are further supported by dedicated committees and working groups. Wesley Hunt will head the Laboratory Grown Diamond Committee, while Stephane Fischler will lead the Technology Committee. The Jewellery Industry Supply Chain Nomenclature Committee will be co-chaired by Feriel Zerouki and Gaetano Cavalieri. Additionally, the Internal Finance & Audit Committee, Coloured Stone Commission Forums (covering Jade, Opal, and Coral), and a working group focused on Appraisals/Valuations are established, with Kenneth Scarratt leading the latter. These structures aim to address specific industry challenges and opportunities.

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