The Diamond Producers Association (DPA) has appointed Kristina Buckley Kayel as Managing Director of its North American division, the organisation announced yesterday. Her appointment will be effective from February 4, 2019 onwards.

Buckley Kayel’s responsibilities include developing and implementing the DPA’s consumer marketing and communications strategy, with a focus upon the “Real is Rare. Real is a Diamond.” platform; she will also represent the DPA in local trades and organisations within North America. Buckley Kayel will be reporting directly to Jean-Marc Lieberherr, the Chief Executive Officer  (CEO) of the DPA.

“Ms. Buckley Kayel’s unique background and extensive experience in strategic marketing, communications and digital leadership roles well positions Ms. 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,” DPA highlighted in its announcement statement.

“Kristina’s experience in the fine jewellery sector, along with her comprehensive communications expertise, business acumen and creativity, gives her a unique industry perspective,” commented Jean-Marc Lieberherr. “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.”

Earlier, Buckley Kayel has led Marketing & Communications for the heritage French high jewellery brand, Van Cleef & Arpels (owned by Compagnie Financière Richemont SA) for the Americas. In that role she oversaw media, digital, public relations, special events, strategic partnerships, educational platforms and visual merchandising, and in the process contributed significantly to strengthening  the positioning of the French jewellery house in the region during her tenure spanning over a decade. “In this key role, she also served on the executive committee responsible for steering overall corporate strategy,” DPA added.

Prior to joining Van Cleef & Arpels, Ms. Buckley Kayel worked in ascending marketing and communications positions for global luxury brands such as Salvatore Ferragamo and Baccarat, and consulted for Bottega Veneta on digital strategy. Ms. Buckley Kayel holds an MBA from SDA Bocconi and has completed executive programmes with a focus on digital business strategy at IMD and Columbia Business School.

Pic Cap: Kristina Buckley Kayel