Susan Jacques Named GIA President and CEO

Susan Jacques has been named president and CEO of the Gemological Institute of America, which means she will resign her long-standing job as head of Omaha, Neb., retailer Borsheim’s. 

Jacques has served as GIA’s interim president and CEO since June 2013, when she replaced Donna Baker, who resigned.

The GIA also announced the appointment of John A. Green, CEO of eight-store chain Lux Bond & Green and GIA board member since 2008, as chair, replacing Jacques. 

“I am honored and humbled by this tremendous opportunity to serve with the more than 2,000 dedicated GIA professionals across the globe,” said Jacques in a statement. “Together we will continue to protect the global public by ensuring their trust in the gem and jewelry industry.”

The GIA’s statement included a comment from Warren Buffett, chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, which has owned Borsheims since 1989.

“I couldn’t be happier or more proud of Susan,” Buffett said. “While it is with great sadness that I accept her resignation after her long and stellar career with Borsheims, I know she is accepting a role at GIA that she is passionate about and allows her to give back to the jewelry industry.”

The board selected Jacques following a search led by executive search firm DHR. 

Jacques joined Borsheims in 1982 and was appointed president and CEO in 1994. She is a member of the Jewelers of America Ethical Initiatives committee and the honorary chair of the Friends of the Diamond Development Initiative. She has served on the boards of Jewelers of America, the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, and Jewelers for Children.   

Jacques is the second woman to head the organization.

GIA’s Presidents

Susan Jacques                  2013 –

Donna Baker                     2006–2013

William Boyajian              1986–2006

Glenn Nord                        1983–1986

Richard Liddicoat              1952–1983

Robert M. Shipley             1931–1952

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JCK News Director

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