DiamondBuzz
Managing Director to Exit Okavango Diamond Company as Leadership Transition Begins
The Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) has announced that Managing Director Mmetla Masire will step down from his role on December 1. He will be succeeded in an acting capacity by the company’s chief financial officer.

Lipalesa Makepe will oversee operations during the transition period, ensuring stability as the Botswana government-owned rough diamond marketer enters its next phase of leadership.
Masire, who has led ODC since 2021, is credited with driving a successful turnaround strategy. Under his leadership, the company achieved its highest-ever revenue in the 2022–2023 fiscal year, strengthened its organizational structure, and expanded its sales channels. ODC stated that Masire leaves the company in a strong position and has full confidence in the team’s ability to continue its progress.
DiamondBuzz
Richemont and Signet Jewelers Could Join Global Diamond Consortium In Bid For De Beers
Richemont, Signet Would Connect The Consortium To Key Global Growth Vectors Spanning Luxury High Jewelry and Mass-Market Retail.
The Global Diamond Consortium (GDC)
Richemont and Signet Jewelers are reported to be in talks about joining the Global Diamond Consortium (GDC), the preferred bidder for De Beers according to a Bloomberg News report.
GDC was selected in July 2026 as one of Anglo American’s preferred bidders for De Beers as part of Anglo American’s ongoing corporate restructuring.
The potential inclusion of Richemont—owner of luxury Maisons including Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels—and Signet Jewelers—the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry, operating brands such as Kay Jewelers, Zales, and Jared—would connect the consortium to key global growth vectors spanning luxury high jewelry and mass-market retail.
Strengthening the Natural Diamond Ecosystem: Participation by major luxury brands and global retail leaders reinforces commitment across the entire value chain—from responsible mining and manufacturing to consumer engagement.
Balanced Governance Structure: Discussions center on potential minority equity positions that would support long-term category growth while maintaining appropriate separation between ownership and commercial strategy.
Broad Stakeholder Participation: The consortium continues to advance talks with host governments, including discussions with the Government of Botswana regarding a potential increase in its equity share in De Beers from 15% to approximately 25%, alongside participation from private investors and southern African host nations.
Discussions between GDC, Richemont, Signet, and participating government stakeholders remain ongoing. Terms of any potential participation, including the size of equity interests, have not been finalized and remain subject to regulatory approvals and definitive documentation.
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