Jewelry designer Kimberly McDonald, a favorite of Michelle Obama and other high-profile fans, has hired seasoned fine jewelry executive Abby Huhtanen to be president of the eponymous firm.

Huhtanen hails most recently from a position as senior buyer at Bergdorf Goodman—where she grew the fine jewelry category to $40 million—while other experience includes stints at Robert Lee Morris, John Hardy, and Chanel watches. McDonald announced her appointment today via press release.

“Abby is one of the most respected people in the industry,” McDonald told the press upon release of the news today. “She understands the brand, supports my vision, and brings a plethora of new ideas to the table.” (JCK profiled McDonald in February 2013.)

McDonald and Huhtanen met at Bergdorf Goodman, where McDonald’s handiwork made a memorable impression. “Her jewelry designs were so unique, I believe I may have asked if we could launch her that day,” Huhtanen states in the release.

Huhtanen will be based in New York City, while McDonald commutes between the city and Los Angeles, where her boutique is based.

JCK