Hill & Co.'s Chief Engagement Officer Pamela Bernstein-Gulla Announces Retirement After a Distinguished 40-Year Career

Pamela Bernstein-Gulla, Chief Engagement Officer at Hill & Co., a prominent entity in the diamond, gemstone, and jewelry sector, is set to conclude her tenure on September 30, 2026. Her retirement signifies the end of a remarkable 40-year journey in the industry, with the last decade spent contributing significantly to Hill & Co.’s success. Throughout her distinguished career, Bernstein-Gulla was instrumental in fostering client relationships, drawing upon her extensive experience in retail, e-commerce, and operational management. Her commitment to sharing her vast knowledge and expertise will continue through her involvement in mentorship programs, ensuring her legacy extends beyond her corporate role.

Bernstein-Gulla’s career exemplifies a profound dedication to the jewelry industry, marked by continuous innovation and leadership. From her foundational years at Fortunoff, where she ascended to a vice presidential role, to her strategic leadership at Hill & Co., she consistently championed advancements in retail and e-commerce. Her influence was particularly notable in developing early e-commerce platforms and CRM systems, showcasing her foresight and adaptability. This rich history of professional achievement and a commitment to nurturing new talent underscores the impact she has had and will continue to have on the industry.

A Distinguished Career and Industry Impact

Pamela Bernstein-Gulla's decision to retire as Chief Engagement Officer from Hill & Co. on September 30, 2026, marks the conclusion of an impactful 40-year journey within the diamond, gemstone, and jewelry industry. For the past decade, Bernstein-Gulla has been a cornerstone of Hill & Co.'s client engagement strategy, utilizing her profound expertise in retail, e-commerce, and operations. Her contributions have been vital in shaping the firm's client relationships and strategic direction, making her departure a significant moment for both the company and the broader industry.

Bernstein-Gulla's career trajectory began at Fortunoff, where she dedicated 25 years, progressing from the Housewares Department to a buyer in the Silver division, and eventually rising to Vice President and General Manager of the Fifth Avenue flagship store. In this role, she directly collaborated with Fortunoff's top executives and managed a staff of 120, overseeing hiring, training, and budgetary responsibilities. She credits Alan Fortunoff as a crucial mentor who encouraged her involvement in early telecommunications initiatives and pioneering one of the jewelry industry's first e-commerce software platforms, CRM, and bridal registries. Following her tenure at Fortunoff, she served as Human Resource and Office Director at Peace of Mind Technologies, where she played a key role in the company's growth into a multi-million-dollar enterprise. Later, as Manager, North America for Plukka (USA) Inc., she established the Hong Kong-based e-commerce fine jewelry start-up's North American presence and spearheaded boutique launches in Hong Kong and New York. This extensive background provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the industry, which she masterfully applied during her time at Hill & Co.

Continuing Contributions and Enduring Legacy

While Pamela Bernstein-Gulla is stepping back from her daily responsibilities at Hill & Co., her engagement with the jewelry industry is far from over. Her commitment to mentorship and knowledge sharing will persist, as she plans to continue her active involvement with the Women’s Jewelry Association’s Metro Mentorship Committee and MENTORO’s Jewelry and Watches New York cohort. This dedication reflects her guiding principle that "Experience is meant to be shared, not kept," a philosophy that has shaped her career and will continue to inspire future generations of professionals in the field.

Elle Hill, Founder & CEO of Hill & Co., praised Bernstein-Gulla’s indelible impact, noting, “Pam has spent forty years building the kind of relationships and reputation that can’t be built overnight, and Hill & Co. has been fortunate to have her for nearly a decade of that career.” Hill further emphasized that Bernstein-Gulla’s retirement is well-deserved, expressing gratitude that her mentorship and influential presence will continue to benefit the industry. Her ongoing role in these esteemed mentorship programs underscores her profound belief in cultivating new talent and ensuring the vibrant future of the jewelry sector. Through these continued efforts, Bernstein-Gulla’s legacy of leadership, innovation, and generous knowledge sharing will undoubtedly endure, leaving an indelible mark on countless individuals and the industry as a whole.