Gemfields Resources has named Ian Timothy Harebottle as CEO, effective immediately. He replaces Sean Gilbertson who held the position since June, 2008.

Harebottle, 46, is a veteran of the colored gemstone industry. Most recently he was the chief executive officer of Tanzanite One Ltd., until February 2008. He joined the company as operations director in September 2001.

Gemfields said in a statement that Gilbertson (pictured) was appointed as an interim CEO of Gemfields on a part-time basis, although there was previously no reference to his “interim” status by the company.

Gemfields said Gilbertson will remain on its board as an executive director and will continue to be actively involved in the future development of the mining company.

“It is a distinct pleasure to welcome someone of Ian’s caliber as CEO of Gemfields,” Gilbertson said in the company statement. “He has a wealth of experience, is well respected in the colored gemstone industry and was instrumental in pioneering many of the industry’s most innovative strategies. I look forward immensely to working with him”.

Harebottle added: “Despite the prevailing market conditions, Gemfields is poised to deliver on one of the most exciting strategies in the colored gemstone industry. It is a great privilege for me to be joining this exceptional team.”

JCK