David Kellie to Step Down as CEO of Natural Diamond Council at End of 2025
David Kellie, the CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), has officially announced his decision to step down at the end of 2025. David Kellie revealed he had advised the Board of Directors of his departure. His exit comes on the heels of the landmark signing of the Luanda Accord, a pivotal initiative securing broader industry funding for the global promotion of natural diamonds.
A Graceful Exit with Continued Commitment
In announcing his departure, David Kellie emphasized his ongoing dedication to the NDC’s mission through the remainder of the year. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, he stated: “Following the successful signing of the Luanda Accord committing more diamond producers to provide funding support for the promotion of natural diamonds, I have advised our Board of Directors that I will be stepping down from my position at the Natural Diamond Council at the end of 2025. I remain committed to the mission of the NDC through the remainder of the year, including the onboarding of new members and the launch of a successful new campaign in Q4.”
Guiding the NDC Through Change and Challenge
Kellie assumed leadership of the organization in 2019, succeeding Jean-Marc Lieberherr, at a time when it still operated under its former identity—the Diamond Producers Association (DPA). Under his guidance, the body underwent a complete rebrand, becoming the Natural Diamond Council. This strategic shift aimed to reposition natural diamonds in the eyes of younger generations, championing their emotional significance, sustainability, and inherent value.
Stewarding the Industry Through Turbulence
Throughout his tenure, Kellie navigated the Council through significant challenges, particularly the financial impact of Alrosa’s exit in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Alrosa had been among the NDC’s primary contributors, and its withdrawal placed considerable strain on category marketing efforts. Despite these obstacles, Kellie ensured the Council maintained its global voice for natural diamonds.
The Legacy of the Luanda Accord
Kellie’s departure aligns with the successful establishment of the Luanda Accord—an unprecedented collaborative commitment among African diamond-producing nations and industry organizations. This agreement secures long-term funding for the promotion of natural diamonds, with the NDC set to spearhead its implementation. It is a capstone achievement that reinforces Kellie’s enduring impact on the industry.
Committed to a Seamless Transition
In his statement, Kellie reaffirmed his dedication to the NDC’s mission through the remainder of the year. His focus will include the onboarding of new members and the launch of a new global campaign in Q4. As of now, the Natural Diamond Council has not named his successor.
About SVAR Media Network – India’s Best Source for Jewellery News, Magazines, Newsletters and Media
SVAR Media Network is India’s No. 1 Destination for Jewellery News, setting the gold standard in timely, trusted, & trend-driven coverage across the Gems & Jewellery industry. As the Most Followed Jewellery Magazine & Media House in India, SVAR delivers Daily Jewellery News India Updates, market insights, & global developments through its platforms like Jewellery Magazine, Newsletters, AI Powered News Bulletins, Website, Social Media, Podcasts, & much more.
Recognized as Asia’s one of the Best Media in Jewellery & one of the World’s Best Jewellery Media, SVAR Media Network sets Unparalleled Standards in the Gems & Jewellery industry. SVAR is the Most Trusted & Widely Read Voice in the Gems & Jewellery Community.
Renowned as India’s Best Jewellery Magazine & Leading Jewellery Media, SVAR blends legacy with cutting-edge innovation by delivering:
- Best in class Jewellery Magazine for the Gems & Jewellery Industry & Jewellery Enthusiasts
- Real-time AI-Powered Jewellery News via SVARA AI, the World’s First AI Anchor in Fashion, Gems & Jewellery Industry
- India’s One of the First Gems & Jewellery Podcasts
- Digital Jewellery Newsletters for professionals and enthusiasts
- ISO 9001:2015 Certification, the first in the jewellery-media sector, proving our commitment to excellence
- Asia’s First & World’s Second Meta Verified Jewellery Media Brand
Ranked #1 among the Top 5 Gems & Jewellery News Websites, Top 10 Jewellery Magazines in India, & Most Influential Jewellery Media Brands, SVAR Media Network is your Trusted Source for Accurate, Fast, & Future-Focused Jewellery News.
SVAR Media Network is India’s No 1 Digital Media in Jewellery Industry & continues to be the Leading Jewellery Magazine & a Global Leader in Jewellery Media. SVAR Media Network offers a diverse range of services, including: Monthly Magazines, Digital Newsletters, Al-Driven News Bulletins, Social Media Promotions, Website Blogs & Articles, WhatsApp Updates, Podcasts & more…
Whether you seek updates on New Launches, Trade Shows, Celebrity Campaigns, Trends or Market Movements, SVAR is the Authority in Jewellery News India & beyond.
Explore the World of Gems & Jewellery with SVAR Media Network — Your Best Source for Trusted, Trend-Setting Jewellery News & Mediapp Updates, Podcasts & more…
