Platinum Guild International USA has appointed Michelle Peranteau as Marketing Communications Manager for PGI-USA, the U.S. jewelry marketing arm for the worldwide platinum jewelry industry. In her new position, Peranteau will report to Michael O’Connor, senior VP, Communications and Trade Relations and join PGI for the official launch of their new headquarters in New York, scheduled to open mid June 2004.

“Michelle’s knowledge and targeted experience make her a valuable asset to the execution of PGI-USA’s new marketing strategies,” O’Connor said.

Peranteau joins PGI-USA from LAGOS Inc, where she served as director of marketing communications. While at LAGOS she effectively created and directed annual communications programs that generated brand awareness and increased sales for the Philadelphia-based designer. Among these programs, Michelle developed and executed LAGOS’ sales training program, which educated buyers and sales associates about the LAGOS brand and how to sell the product. In addition, Peranteau spearheaded product placement efforts which landed LAGOS jewelry on some of Hollywood’s top TV celebrities such as Sex and the City’s Cynthia Nixon, as well as the cast of Will & Grace and the West Wing. Most recently, Peranteau took part in the launch of LAGOS’ new nationwide advertising campaign.

Peranteau’s ten years of marketing and communications experience also includes work with high-profile organizations such as Campbell’s Soup Co., Primestar Satellite TV, and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Peranteau will be responsible for the development and execution of PGI-USA’s communications programs as well as the development of merchandising point of purchase materials. She will also manage PGI’s consumer research, awareness and tracking studies and be responsible for insuring compliance of all materials with Platinum Guild International’s brand image for the world’s most precious metal.

JCK