Rentmeesters took over following the unexpected departure of Ari Epstein, who had served as CEO for 13 years without specifying reasons for his resignation.

Rentmeesters previously held the position of Chief Officer for PR and Industry Relations at AWDC before stepping into the interim CEO role. Her appointment as permanent CEO was confirmed by AWDC on July 19, with unanimous support from all board members.

Isidore Morsel, President of the AWDC Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Rentmeesters, stating, "The fact that all board members unanimously agreed to appoint Karen as permanent CEO of the AWDC speaks volumes about the trust we all put in her. In the past three months, as interim CEO, she has demonstrated to be an absolute added value for the organization. She has a solid understanding of our industry and of the challenges our industry is currently facing. She is not afraid to tackle difficult decisions and brings a creative approach to the table."

Rentmeesters' appointment comes with a mandate to guide AWDC through a period aimed at revitalizing Antwerp's diamond industry and ensuring sustained growth. Her background in industry relations and her demonstrated leadership during her interim tenure position her well to lead AWDC into its next chapter.

The AWDC is a pivotal organization within the global diamond trade, and Rentmeesters' leadership is expected to steer the organization towards achieving its strategic objectives in the coming years.