Jonnie has played an integral role in leading the evolution of many of De Beers Group’s downstream activities since he joined the company in 2001, holding a variety of roles during this time. Key achievements included helping to modernise the company’s approach to building stronger relationship with clients, launching the original Forevermark programme in 2005 and undertaking major marketing campaigns to support De Beers Group’s global leadership position.

 In recent years, Jonnie led the development and launch of what is today known as De Beers Group Industry Services and the Institute of Diamonds, offering world-class diamond grading, testing, synthetic detection technology and education services to the diamond trade. He also oversaw the building of two globally recognised diamond laboratories in Antwerp and Surat.

 Stephen Lussier, Executive Vice-President, Consumer and Brands, said: “Jonnie has made a significant contribution both to De Beers and to the wider diamond industry over the past two decades and is highly regarded by colleagues and clients alike. His leadership and dedication to always acting in the best interests of the diamond industry in underpinning consumer desire for, and trust in, diamonds, will leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of everyone at De Beers, I extend my deepest appreciation to Jonnie and wish him all the very best for this next chapter.”

 Following Jonnie’s retirement, Jamie Clark, with 23 years’ experience, much of it alongside Jonnie, will take responsibility for managing the world-leading De Beers diamond laboratories. Emanuela Morando will continue to head up Client Management and Business Development and Jodine Perrin will continue to lead the company’s consumer and trade education services programme.