De Beers Promotes 4 Internally, Neil Ventura Exits
In addition, De Beers’ head of human resources is moving over to parent company Anglo American.
Ventura, who has been with De Beers for 32 years, is leaving the company to “pursue other interests” and will be replaced by Ryan Perry, who will step up from his current role as head of strategy to become acting executive vice president of strategy and innovation.
Malebogo Mpugwa joins the committee as executive head of human resources, succeeding Joy Roman, who is leaving De Beers to head HR for parent company Anglo American’s Technical & Sustainability function.
Rasila (Ras) Vaghjiani becomes a member of the committee in her new role as executive vice president of transformation for De Beers.
And Riaan Burger joins the ExCo as CEO of Namdeb, the joint venture between De Beers and the Government of the Republic of Namibia.
The internal reshuffling comes a week after the company announced that current CEO Bruce Cleaver would be stepping down early next year.
Commenting on the changes, Cleaver said: “I’m delighted to have Riaan, Ras, Malebogo, and Ryan join the executive committee. We have a huge wealth of talent in the group with expertise right across the diamond value chain.
“Adding the breadth and depth of skills of the new appointees to the ExCo will be of great benefit as we continue to implement our strategy.”
He thanked Ventura for his more than three decades of service to De Beers, noting the roles the longtime executive has played in transforming the company’s auction business and helping to shepherd major initiatives, such as lab-grown diamond brand Lightbox and Tracr, De Beers’ blockchain platform, through their incubation phases.
He also thanked the departing head of HR, Roman.
“I … congratulate her on this new role that will be a fantastic opportunity for her as she builds on the experience she has brought to De Beers to lead the global people and organization strategy for Anglo American’s Technical & Sustainability function. I wish them both every success for the future.”
The Latest

The Dayton-based jeweler, which has been in business since 1985, was formerly known as Stafford Jewelers.

Reeds Jewelers CEO Alan Zimmer will be presented with the honor at JVC’s annual luncheon.

The piece, celebrating birthdays from March 21 to April 19, debuted with Sorellina’s new line of astrological pendants.

Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA

The Indian jewelry brand recently opened stores in Atlanta and Seattle.


CEO Beth Gerstein shared its most popular price points, what’s trending in non-bridal fine jewelry, and its holiday performance.

The 15 pieces were crafted from the “Insofu” emerald, discovered in Zambia in 2010.

Natural diamonds mean more than lab-grown, but when every cut is ideal, they all look the same. Customers want more—Facets of Fire delivers.

Chris Anderson is joining the insurance provider as the new chief financial officer and treasurer.

Jewelers of America is distributing a brochure for retailers to use when discussing the differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds.

The industry is changing as it grapples with new realities around distribution, supply, and the need for consistent, effective marketing.

Bhansali discusses the potential impact of U.S. tariffs, demand for diamonds by market, and the “cautious confidence” in India right now.

As lab-grown diamond brands pop up across India, academics are researching how to grow demand outside of the jewelry industry.

Govind Dholakia and Tanishq will be recognized for their contributions to the industry at the Diamonds Do Good Awards in Las Vegas.

The New York City-based brand has opened its first U.K. location with a permanent shop-in-shop at Liberty in London.

A metal detectorist discovered the ring that is believed to have belonged to a bishop in the late 12th to early 13th century.

Organizers looked to new partnerships and interactive experiences to enhance the spring show, set for March 16 to 18.

Kenewendo, Botswana’s minister of minerals and energy, will discuss the future of diamonds.

The suspect allegedly stole almost $800,000 worth of diamond jewelry from a store in Orlando and then swallowed it during a traffic stop.

Ahead of the Gem Awards on Friday, Jen Cullen Williams and Duvall O’Steen share pro tips for taking the best photos.

Founded in 2000, Marco Bicego is commemorating its milestone anniversary with a “25 Best” collection and campaigns honoring its heritage.

Those attending the company’s upcoming Zoom workshop will receive early access to “The List,” its new resource for finding buyers.

The organization will present an award to Amy-Elise Signeavsky, law enforcement and diamond recovery manager at GIA.

Chandler started his jewelry career at Michelson Jewelers, joining the Diamond Council of America as president and CEO in 2001.

Scottish American designer Maeve Gillies collaborated with Platinum Guild International on jewelry created by direct metal 3D printing.

Ahead of its trade show in May, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to five up-and-coming jewelry industry professionals.

The 2025 Gem Awards are set to take place Friday at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.