DPA Appoints North America Chief

RAPAPORT... The Diamond Producers Association (DPA) has appointed former VanCleef & Arpels marketing executive Kristina Buckley Kayel as managingdirector for North America. Buckley Kayel will be in charge of developing andimplementing the DPA's consumer-marketing and communications strategy,beginning February 4, the organization said Thursday. Reporting to CEOJean-Marc Lieberherr, she will focus on the group's flagship marketingplatform, "Real is Rare. Real is a Diamond," and represent the DPA atorganizations across North America. Buckley Kayel has been head of marketing andcommunications for the Americas at Van Cleef & Arpels for 10 years. Shepreviously worked at other luxury brands, including Salvatore Ferragamo and Baccarat. "Kristina's experience in the fine-jewelry sector, alongwith her comprehensive communications expertise, business acumen andcreativity, gives her a unique industry perspective," Lieberherr said. "We areexcited to have her join the Diamond Producers Association and work with us tostrengthen and build upon our mission in the US."Image: Kristina Buckley Kayel. (DPA)