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The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is pleased to announce the co-option of two experienced industry professionals to its National Committee board.

At the most recent board meeting in July, the NAJ’s National Committee welcomed Kerry Saunders, operations director at Domino Jewellery, and Neil Ventura, CEO of Ventura Fine Jewellery, as new co-opted members. Their unique expertise and extensive industry experience make them valuable additions to the committee.

Kerry Saunders is an accomplished Operations Director with over 25 years of extensive experience in manufacturing. Throughout her career, she has honed her expertise in the processes of production and supply chain management, ensuring the highest standards of quality and compliance. Kerry has successfully led businesses through complex accreditations such as ISO, BRC, GLP, GMP and RJC, underscoring her ability to navigate stringent regulatory landscapes. Her significant experience in ethical and environmental monitoring of suppliers, particularly in Eastern Europe and Asia, has been pivotal in developing robust and sustainable supply chains.

In her current role at Weston Beamor, Kerry oversees manufacturing operations and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Reporting Standards (ESRS), continuing to advance the company’s commitment to ethical practices and environmental stewardship. She is renowned for her leadership in developing skills and fostering growth within her teams, driving continuous improvement and operational excellence. A dedication to team development, transparent communication, and the pursuit of excellence in all operational facets define her leadership style.

Kerry shares,

“I am honoured to join the NAJ’s National Committee and look forward to continuing the advancement of the jewellery industry. Together, we will work to uphold the highest standards of excellence and responsibility in our industry.”

Neil Ventura is the founder and CEO of Ventura Fine Jewellery, a bespoke-led jewellery business based in Henley on Thames. A highly respected industry figure, Neil previously built a successful and distinguished career with the De Beers Group. Neil progressed from buying, selling, and auctioning diamonds worldwide, including several exceptional rare diamonds, to becoming an integral part of the De Beers Executive team and pioneering changes in established regional and global businesses. Neil served most recently as Executive Vice President for the group’s Strategy and Innovation function from retail to mining, where, alongside developing the group’s strategy, he had executive responsibility for building several new ventures for the organisation, including a laboratory-grown diamond jewellery business, Lightbox, and a blockchain-based digital traceability platform, Tracr, which has been recognised by Forbes on three separate occasions. Neil is also an advisor with Antler, helping founders build some of the most defining companies of tomorrow. Having lived and worked in 8 countries, Neil brings a truly international perspective to the National Committee, alongside his deep knowledge of the diamond industry and his experience in jewellery sales.

Neil Ventura states,

“I’m delighted to be joining the National Committee to help progress the Association’s strategy and, in doing so, drive the competitiveness of the UK Jewellery sector. The Association is in a good position to help businesses foster innovation and stay ahead of global trends, both key areas I’m looking forward to working on.”

Kerry and Neil will become full members of the National Committee at the NAJ’s 2025 annual general meeting, joining…

• Adam Jacobs, Jacobs the Jewellers (Chair)
• Gary Wroe, Hockley Mint (President)
• Heather Callaway FIRV (IRV Professional Community Group Chair)
• Alexia Taylor MIRV, Walsh Bros. (Chair of Professional and Technical Standards Standing Group)
• Chris Oliver, Goldsmiths Centre (Chair Education Standing Group)
• Peter Wong, Wongs Jewellers (JBN Professional Community Group Representative)
• David Doyle, Jewellery Brokers
• Anna Blackburn, Beaverbrooks the Jewellers
• Mehdi Saadian MIRV, GIA

Adam Jacobs, NAJ Chair, concludes,

“We are delighted to welcome Kerry and Neil to the NAJ’s National Committee. Their experience and targeted expertise will provide an invaluable resource to progress the NAJ’s aims and help it deliver for its members and wider trade.”

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