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Paul De Wachter Appointed New CEO of HRD Antwerp

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The Board of Directors of HRD Antwerp, a subsidiary of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), has appointed Paul De Wachter as its new CEO. Bringing over twenty years of experience and a proven track record in the international diamond industry, De Wachter will assume the role in January 2026. As CEO, he is tasked with strengthening HRD’s position as a reliable partner for the international diamond trade and leading the organisation through a period of significant transformation. Former CEO Ellen Joncheere, whose contract was not renewed, is stepping down, with Stanley De Belie appointed as interim CEO during the transition phase.

De Wachter began his career in the diamond sector in 2002 and rose to the position of Senior Relationship Manager at the Antwerp Diamond Bank. After a brief period at Channel Capital Advisors in a similar role, he joined the National Bank of Fujairah (NBF), where he has been active for more than seven years. He started there as Head of the Antwerp Representative Office, focusing on building a strong local client portfolio. Since 2020, he has served as Head of the Diamond Unit, where he expanded the bank’s brand and significantly strengthened its market position.

The Board of Directors of HRD Antwerp has expressed full confidence in the new CEO. “With his extensive experience in the international diamond industry, his strong and relevant network, and the concrete results he has achieved as Head of the Diamond Unit at NBF, Paul convinced us that he is the right person to lead HRD Antwerp into the future,” said Bart De Hantsetters, on behalf of the Board of Directors.

The Board also extended its thanks to Ellen Joncheere, who is stepping down after a little more than five years as CEO of HRD Antwerp, for her dedication and service.

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Appoinment

Natural Diamond Council appoints Amber Pepper as CEO

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The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) today announced the appointment of Amber Pepper as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 February 2026.A seasoned global leader in luxury brand transformation, Pepper brings a wealth of experience in driving commercial growth, digital innovation, and consumer-centric storytelling across some of the world’s most respected fashion and retail brands, including senior roles at Tapestry, Farfetch, and Harrods. Most recently she has served as Chief Marketing and Customer Officer and Managing Director at luxury digital platform Mytheresa. 

In her new role, Pepper will focus on shaping a compelling narrative that reinforces the desirability of natural diamonds and drives measurable commercial outcomes. She will strengthen consumer demand and industry partnerships, while ensuring natural diamonds remain distinct and relevant in a competitive landscape. A key priority will be expanding digital engagement with younger consumers and using data-driven insights to create marketing strategies that inspire emotional connection and long-term loyalty.

A seasoned global leader in luxury brand transformation, Pepper brings a wealth of experience in driving commercial growth, digital innovation, and consumer-centric storytelling across some of the world’s most respected fashion and retail brands.

Pepper’s work has consistently focused on building emotionally resonant brands and connecting with Gen Z and luxury consumers across global markets. Her experience in leading omnichannel strategies and building high-performing teams will be central to guiding the NDC’s next phase of growth. 

Sandrine Conseiller, Chair of the NDC, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Amber as the new CEO of the Natural Diamond Council. Her global perspective, commercial expertise, and deep understanding of luxury consumers make her an exceptional choice to lead the Council and galvanise the industry.”

The appointment follows the announcement that current CEO David Kellie will retire at the end of this year. Since joining the NDC in 2019, Kellie has overseen the Council’s re-brand from the Diamond Producers Association to the Natural Diamond Council. He strengthened relationships across the industry and navigated the organisation through major challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. 

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