The board of directors of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) appointed Karen Rentmeesters as the new, permanent CEO last week. Rentmeesters, who has more than 14 years of experience within the organisation, including 7 years as head of the PR & Industry Relations department and three months as interim CEO, will immediately assume the role. In her new role as CEO, she is tasked to guide Antwerp back to growth, among others, by focusing on optimising AWDC’s operations.
Rentmeesters began her career at the AWDC in 2010 and took up various roles within the organisation in the past 14 years. She started as Communications Officer, continued to lead the PR & Industry Relations department, and assuming the role of interim CEO three months ago, a role which is now confirmed in a permanent appointment.
Isidore Mörsel, President of the AWDC Board of Directors, said, “The fact that all board members unanimously agreed to appoint Karen as permanent CEO of the AWDC speaks volumes about the trust we all put in her. She has a solid understanding of our industry and of the challenges our industry is currently facing. She is not afraid to tackle difficult decisions and brings a creative approach to the table, which, combined with her experience, makes her the perfect person for the job.”
Karen Rentmeesters commented, “I look forward to continuing the work I started as interim CEO. In the past few months, some key issues have been addressed, but it will take a lot more for Antwerp to return to a growing and flourishing diamond trade hub. The global diamond industry faces geopolitical challenges and is in a worldwide crisis. As a representative body, it is crucial that we can guide our companies through these turbulent times and offer perspective for the future.”
Rentmeesters, 45, has a master’s degree in communication sciences from the University of Leuven. Throughout her career, she has led teams of various sizes, built up an extensive network, and has in-depth knowledge of the diamond industry, from mine to finger.