JCK Take 3: Wolf, Jewelers of America, Kendra Scott

By JCK News Desk | April 14, 2026

Wolf Taps Adam Fried to Head Client Development

Adam Fried (pictured) has been appointed global director of client development at Wolf, the U.K.–based maker of jewelry boxes, watch storage cases, and watch winders. In the newly created role, Fried will focus on strengthening Wolf’s client relationships and supporting its sales and education initiatives.

Fried is a third-generation jewelry industry professional with roots in New York’s Diamond District, the company said. His background includes both the vendor and retail sides of the industry, giving him experience in business-to-business as well as consumer-facing operations.

Most recently, Fried served as director of retail at IDD Luxe. He was previously a global trainer at Hearts On Fire, where he worked with sales teams internationally on diamond knowledge and training. Earlier in his career, Fried held the positions of director of corporate training at Hyde Park Jewelers and vice president of development for CD Peacock.

Simon Wolf, chief executive officer of Wolf, said in a statement that “Adam’s experience and long history of running sales workshops across the globe will now infuse the knowledge that the great sales folks on the shop floor need.”

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Jewelers of America Opens Grant Applications

Jewelers of America (JA) is accepting applications until May 18 for its Impact Initiative grants supporting projects that strengthen and advance the U.S. jewelry industry.

Impact Initiative provides funding and partnership support for programs that address key industry concerns such as ethical business practices, environmental responsibility, education, and innovation. Trade associations, jewelry companies, and nonprofit organizations that work with the jewelry industry are eligible to apply.

Grant applicants are evaluated based on their proposed programs, potential industry reach, and demonstrated need. David J. Bonaparte, president and CEO of Jewelers of America, said Impact Initiative reflects JA’s efforts to support programs beyond its own operations and is intended to expand JA’s ability to create positive change across the jewelry sector.

Impact Initiative is structured like an endowment, with an initial funding commitment of $150,000 for 2026, according to JA. Last year, grants were awarded to the BIJC Education Fund, Diamonds Do Good, Jewelers Security Alliance, Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Providence Jewelers Club, and the Texas Jewelers Association, for projects focused on education, security, legal resources, and professional training.

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Kendra Scott Gets New CFO

Kendra Scott has named Mike McMullen its new chief financial officer, effective April 27. The Austin, Texas–based jewelry and accessories brand said the appointment is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen its financial and operational leadership.

McMullen brings more than 20 years of experience in finance leadership roles. He joins Kendra Scott after a decade at outdoor gear company Yeti, where he’d served as CFO since 2023 and helped guide the firm through its initial public offering. He previously worked at Dell and PriceWaterhouseCoopers.

At Kendra Scott, McMullen will be responsible for overseeing financial strategy and operations as the brand expands beyond its core jewelry business. The company recently introduced product lines in eyewear and footwear, and it said it continues to invest in retail and digital channels.

The JCK News Desk uses AI to help produce the first draft of articles. This story was then reviewed and edited by staff writer David Blomquist.