Sriram ‘Ram’ Natarajan, previously Managing Director of GIA India Laboratory Private Limited (GIA India), has been appointed to a new role as Senior Vice President of Laboratory Operations for the Gemological Institute of America, Inc. (GIA). He began his new responsibilities in early August, based at GIA’s world headquarters in Carlsbad, California, US, reporting to GIA President and CEO Pritesh Patel.
In this new role, Natarajan will lead and establish the vision and direction for GIA laboratory operations, including diamond grading and jewellery services.
“Ram is a dynamic leader closely attuned to GIA’s mission and the needs of our laboratory clients,” said GIA President and CEO Pritesh Patel. “As we continue to introduce new technologies and processes to advance efficiency, and develop new laboratory products and services, his expertise, insight and experience will be invaluable.”
Since 2020, Natarajan was the Managing Director of GIA India, reporting to the board of directors of GIA India Laboratory Private Limited (GIA India). In that role, he was responsible for education and laboratory activities in India. He joined GIA India in 2017 as Vice President of Laboratory Operations, bringing with him three decades of extensive operational and leadership experience across various international industries.
“It is an honour to take on responsibility for overseeing GIA’s gemmological laboratories,” said Natarajan. “I look forward to working with our teams and clients to deliver high-quality laboratory services and uphold the standards of excellence that GIA is known for.”
A new Managing Director of GIA India Laboratory Private Limited is expected to be announced in the fourth quarter.