JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – The World Diamond Council (WDC) has named Patricia Syvrud, founder and president of jewellery services company Joia Consulting, as its first executive director, effective October 31.
Syvrud would report to the executive committee of the WDC board of directors and would assist the WDC president.
She would be responsible for representing the WDC in the Kimberley Process, as well as providing overall leadership and strategic direction to the organisation.
The appointment followed the establishment of a screening committee to review a large number of applications for the position from around the world.
"The important work of the WDC was reflected in the calibre of the applicants for the position. Patricia's breadth and depth of knowledge of the jewellery industry, as well as her previous experience in working with nonprofit and international organisations make her an obvious choice.
“The board sees this appointment as further professionalising the WDC and looks forward to working with her to continue to enhance the credibility and stature of the WDC in the international arena,” WDC president Edward Asscher said in a statement.