The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has appointed Neil Ventura, a seasoned diamond industry executive and former De Beers leader, as special adviser for its Precious Stones Ecosystem, the organization announced Sunday via X (formerly Twitter)

Ventura brings over three decades of global experience in the diamond and precious stones sector, including key leadership roles at De Beers and Anglo American. In his new position, he will provide strategic direction for the DMCC’s growing ecosystem, with a particular focus on the Dubai Diamond Exchange (DDE), which now hosts more than 1,300 member companies.

His responsibilities will span both natural and lab-grown diamonds, covering market development, ethical sourcing, compliance, and platform visibility. He will also help shape initiatives aimed at boosting international trade and attracting new participants to Dubai’s diamond hub.

Ventura is widely recognized for driving innovation across the diamond value chain. At De Beers, he spearheaded the development of De Beers Auction Sales, co-founded the Tracr blockchain platform, launched Lightbox Jewelry — the group’s lab-grown diamond brand — and created GemFair, a social initiative designed to empower artisanal miners.

Alongside his new advisory role at DMCC, Ventura continues to serve as an expert adviser to Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and is actively involved with Antler, a global early-stage venture capital firm.