Eli Izhakoff is stepping away from his role as president of the World Diamond Council (WDC) after leading the organization for the last 13 years.
“It has been an often challenging, but always inspiring period of my career and one of which I am immensely proud,” Izhakoff said.
“The World Diamond Council, which was created in response to one of the gravest crises to face our industry, not only was instrumental in creating the system that blocked the flow of conflict diamonds into the legitimate trade, but it also changed the way in which we see our role as a business community in a greater society. It also changed the way in which we are regarded by our stakeholders and our consumers.”
Izhakoff’s term concludes June 30.
According to a press release, Izhakoff informed the WDC’s board of directors of his decision—described as “not sudden” and “entirely personal”—last May at the group’s annual meeting in Vicenza, Italy.
A successor has not yet been elected.
“I was privileged to serve as president from the very beginning, but it is now time for me and the World Diamond Council to move on,” Izhakoff said.
“After 13 years, the WDC is preparing for the future. A steering committee I appointed last year is working on reforms that will strengthen our organization, and I plan to have them adopted and implemented before June 30. The WDC is evolving and adapting for the years ahead, and it is with that same spirit of renewal I believe a new president should assume responsibility.”
Izhakoff said he will remain involved in the diamond and jewellery industries, and will continue to support the WDC’s mission and principles.
