Antwerp: The World Diamond Council has announced the
appointment of Ronnie VanderLinden as its new president, following the
organisation’s annual general meeting held in Antwerp on 7 May.
VanderLinden, who has served as vice president of the World
Diamond Council for the past three years, succeeds Feriel Zerouki as president.
His appointment comes at a significant moment for the global diamond industry,
as the natural diamond trade continues to navigate shifting market conditions,
evolving consumer preferences and increasing competition from alternative
categories.
A long-standing industry figure, VanderLinden is the
president of Diamex, a diamond company founded in 1990. He has also previously
served as president of the International Diamond Manufacturers Association,
giving him extensive experience across manufacturing, trade representation and
industry advocacy.
In his new role, VanderLinden is expected to place strong
emphasis on strengthening confidence in natural diamonds and creating a more
unified industry voice. He said the World Diamond Council must remain focused
on supporting the natural diamond trade and helping the industry communicate
its value more effectively.
“The World Diamond Council must be a champion for the
natural diamond trade,” VanderLinden said in a statement.
His leadership comes at a time when the natural diamond
sector is under pressure from multiple sides. Demand has softened in several
markets, messaging around natural diamonds has become fragmented, and
competition has intensified as new jewellery categories and lab-grown diamonds
gain greater visibility among consumers.
VanderLinden indicated that alignment across the diamond
value chain will be central to the council’s approach. For the industry, this
means building stronger cooperation between mining companies, manufacturers,
retailers and trade bodies so that natural diamonds are positioned with greater
clarity and confidence.
The World Diamond Council has also announced key
appointments in its leadership team. Anoop Mehta has been appointed vice
president. Mehta is the managing director of Mohit Diamonds and president of
the Bharat Diamond Bourse. David Bonaparte has been named treasurer, while Udi
Sheintal will serve as secretary.
Founded in 2000, the World Diamond Council represents the global diamond value chain, from mining to retail. Its role has become increasingly important as the industry works to protect consumer trust, support responsible sourcing and maintain the relevance of natural diamonds in a changing jewellery market.
