The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), the leading standards organisation of the global jewellery and watch industry, announced that its board of directors had appointed Edward Asscher as its Vice Chairman, and appointed Marianne Zani to its board. Each received unanimous approval by the board at its meeting in London on 6th October, the first in-person board meeting since the global pandemic began.
A member of one of the diamond industry’s, and Amsterdam’s, well-known families, Edward Asscher was elected President of the World Diamond Council (WDC) in June 2020. This is his second term as WDC President, having led the organisation from 2014 to 2016.
“It is an honour to have been elected as Vice Chair of RJC. I trust that my long experience serving the industry will contribute to meeting its goals and those of its members. In particular, I am committed to RJC’s inclusivity,” Asscher said. “As president of the World Diamond Council, I am well aware of the challenges involved in representing all participants in our industry. RJC’s standards, sustainability goals and the furthering of diversity will contribute to all, both larger and smaller companies.”
With more than 20 years of experience in jewellery and watchmaking brands, Marianne Zani is the CSR and Exceptional Supplies Director of Chanel Watches & Fine Jewellery (WFJ). She joined Chanel in 2017 as Sourcing and Development Director, and prior to that held various positions at Cartier.
Zani said, “Considering the multiple challenges we face as an industry, I know that sustainability is an absolute necessity we need to pursue and continuously address to achieve CSR objectives.”
Board Chair David Bouffard added, “Both of these appointments represent significant additions to the strength of deeply experienced board we have in place. Edward brings a distinguished and comprehensive career in the jewellery industry to our executive leadership on the board, and Marianne brings a tremendous set of experiences and insights from one of the world’s leading luxury brands. Our board has never been stronger, more committed and dynamic.”