Claire’s CEO Ryan Vero Steps Down
Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer Chris Cramer has been named interim CEO.

Ryan Vero was named head of the accessories chain in 2019, joining Claire’s after serving as president of Party City Retail Group.
The retailer did not give a reason for his departure, which was effective immediately. He also will vacate his position on the company’s board of managers.
During Vero’s tenure, Claire’s worked to expand its reach by partnering with other retailers including Walgreens and Kohl’s.
It overhauled its marketing and gave its piercing business a trendy makeover, all in an attempt to be more appealing to Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers.
Vero also was head of the retailer when it announced plans to go public in late 2021, though it abandoned those plans in July 2023, citing market conditions.
“On behalf of the board, I want to thank Ryan for his service to Claire’s,” said Samantha Algaze, chair of Claire’s board of managers.
“As we look ahead, Claire’s is poised to build on its position as a powerful, global fashion brand and a true destination for today’s consumer.”
Claire’s named Chris Cramer as interim CEO, effective immediately.
Cramer is the company’s chief financial officer and chief operating officer. He joined Claire’s late last year following a short stint as president of Parade Inc., an intimates brand tailored to Gen Z.
Prior to Parade, he spent a total of 20 years at Bath & Body Works and its parent company, L Brands. He served as both COO and CFO of Bath & Body Works.
“I am honored to serve as interim CEO and appreciate the board’s confidence and support at this important time for Claire’s,” Cramer said.
“I look forward to working closely with the leadership team and the board to build on the company’s recent momentum, strengthen our relationships with our customers, partners, and employees, and further realize our growth potential.”
The Latest

From lions and hippos to snails and fish, Senior Editor Lenore Fedow wrangles her picks for cutest jewelry critters in Las Vegas.

The big stone will be fashioned into a 20.26-carat diamond in celebration of the retailer’s 100th anniversary this year.

At the JCK show, the lab-grown diamond brand teamed up with Jewelers for Children to support Make-A-Wish India.

As gold prices rise, today’s retailers are looking for alternatives at prices that will appeal to wider audiences.

Ilana McCabe is Signet’s vice president of public relations and brand communications.


It was a banner day for blue gemstones, with another blue diamond topping $8 million and a 41-carat sapphire going for $2.3 million.

The men are believed to be part of the group of several masked suspects that robbed Marc Robinson Jewelers in April.

With the trade and customer trust in mind, GIA® developed NextGem™ – on-demand training designed specifically for retail.

The bridal-focused brand is also launching its Custom Atelier this summer, a digital custom design tool for its authorized retailers.

The De Beers Group CEO also discussed tariffs, Desert Diamonds, and the pending sale of De Beers in an interview with Michelle Graff.

The industry veteran is bringing his 56-year run in the fine jewelry sector to an end.

The panel discussion will feature LGBTQ+ leaders across the jewelry, luxury, and creative industries.

Inspired by a locket that got run over, the “Smash” capsule collection reimagines the shape of Lichtenberg’s signature style.

The company has promoted Katherine Whitacre to the role.

The jewelry manufacturer has added Taylor Swift-esque diamond shapes, and more silver, gold vermeil, and gold-plated jewelry.

Morrison has been marketing diamonds on and off since the early 2000s and said she is leaving to “pursue new projects.”

Those born in June can celebrate with pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone jewelry.

The platform allows retailers to guide clients through a customizable engagement ring buying experience in a branded interface.

Jim Springer, owner of Dunkelberger’s Fine Jewelry, is heading into retirement.

When conducting its May consumer confidence survey, The Conference Board asked extra questions about consumers’ budgeting strategies.

The “Tunnel” charm, our Piece of the Week, celebrates Pride Month with its design inspired by hope and the light at the end of the tunnel.

The jewelry industry is reassessing its positioning as Gen Z reshapes the retail landscape and lab grown continues to gain market share.

Up for auction at Sotheby’s, the collection of Tempelsman’s personal effects includes a Cartier Tank watch Jackie O. gifted him.

The Miami-based fine jewelry brand will host its first summer residency in the Colorado mountain town from June 5 to Aug. 23.

The organization also announced its international board of directors for the 2026-2027 term.

Saks Global confirmed the closure this week, spelling the end for a store that’s been part of downtown Dallas for more than 100 years.

Smith discusses how managers should handle a top performer's exit, warning that a poor response could have a lasting impact.

























