The Diamond Producers Association (DPA) has appointed Kristina Buckley Kayel (pictured) as the managing director of its North American division, it announced today.
Kayel will be responsible for developing and implementing the DPA’s consumer marketing and communications strategy, with a focus on the group’s “Real is rare. Real is a diamond” platform, as well as representing the organization in North America.
Kayel previously led marketing and communications for the Americas for Richemont-owned jewelry brand Van Cleef & Arpels. At the noted French jewelry house, she oversaw digital, public relations, strategic partnerships, and educational platforms and served on the executive committee that steered overall corporate strategy.
In December 2016, Luxury Daily called her a “Luxury Woman to Watch.”
Prior to that, she worked as marketing director for Salvatore Ferragamo; marketing and public relations manager for Baccarat; and consulted with Bottega Veneta on digital strategy. She holds an Master of Business Administration from SDA Bocconi School of Management in Milan and has completed executive programs with a focus on digital business strategy at the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland, and Columbia Business School in New York City.
Kayel will report directly to Jean-Marc Lieberherr, the CEO of the DPA.
“Kristina’s experience in the fine jewelry sector, along with her comprehensive communications expertise, business acumen, and creativity, gives her a unique industry perspective,” Lieberherr said in a statement. “We are excited to have her join the Diamond Producers Association and work with us to strengthen and build upon our mission in the United States.”
The Diamond Producers Association was founded in 2015 by the world’s major diamond miners, with the mission to restore, protect, and promote the integrity and reputation of natural diamonds, especially among younger consumers.
The DPA talked to JCK about the evolution of “Real Is Rare” in 2016.
(Image courtesy of the Diamond Producers Association)
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