(IDEX Online) - The Diamond Producers Association (DPA), an international alliance of the world's leading diamond mining companies, has appointed Kristina Buckley Kayel as Managing Director of its North American division.
Buckley Kayel assumes her new role on February 4, and will be responsible for developing and implementing the DPA's consumer marketing and communications strategy, with a focus upon the "Real is Rare. Real is a Diamond." platform, as well as representing the DPA in local trade bodies and organizations within North America. She will report directly to Jean-Marc Lieberherr, the Chief Executive Officer of the DPA.
Buckley Kayel's "unique background and extensive experience in strategic marketing, communications and digital leadership roles well positions Buckley Kayel to spearhead the DPA's mission to restore, protect and promote the integrity and reputation of natural diamonds, especially among the younger U.S. consumer base, which is the largest market globally in terms of diamond demand," the DPA said.
Lieberherr said: "Kristina's experience in the fine jewelry sector, along with her comprehensive communications expertise, business acumen and creativity, gives her a unique industry perspective. We are excited to have her join the Diamond Producers Association and work with us to strengthen and build upon our mission in the United States."
For the last decade, Buckley Kayel led marketing and communications for the heritage French high jewelry brand, Van Cleef & Arpels (owned by Compagnie Financi??re Richemont SA) for the Americas. She oversaw media, digital, public relations, special events, strategic partnerships, educational platforms and visual merchandising.
Prior to joining Van Cleef & Arpels, she worked in marketing and communications positions for global luxury brands such as Salvatore Ferragamo and Baccarat, and consulted for Bottega Veneta on digital strategy. She has an MBA from SDA Bocconi and has completed executive programs with a focus on digital business strategy at IMD and Columbia Business School.