Majors

24 Karat Club of New York Names New President

MajorsFeb 21, 2025

24 Karat Club of New York Names New President

The organization also announced its newly elected officers and directors.

Jeffrey Cohen, Steven Lagos, Michael Benavente, Monica Elias
The 24 Karat Club of New York has elected a new president as well as new directors and officers. From left to right, Jeffrey Cohen, chairperson; Steven Lagos, president; Michael Benavente, vice president; and Monica Elias, director.
New York—The 24 Karat Club of New York has elected a new president, as well as new officers and directors for the 2025-2026 term.

Steven Lagos, founder of jewelry brand Lagos, is the organization’s new president.

Michael Benavente, managing director of the Bulova Corp. watch brands, was elected vice president.

Monica Elias, president of Elias World Media, was elected to the board as a new director.

Jeffrey Cohen, CEO of Citizen Watch America, will continue in his three-year term as chairperson.

“It is my esteemed pleasure to chair the 24 Karat Club of the City of New York. I am proud to lead this organization and its distinguished members,” said Cohen.

“As an organization we will benefit this year from the perspective of our new officers, Steve Lagos, president, and Michael Benavente, vice president, along with the rich experience of our re-elected officers and directors.”

Several officers were re-elected.

Jeffrey Bergam, vice president of accounting and finance at Gold Star Jewellery, will once again serve as treasurer.

John Kennedy, former president of the Jewelers’ Security Alliance, will serve as secretary.

The following members will continue as directors:
Sarin Bachmann, group vice president, RX Jewelry Portfolio;
Edward DeCristofaro, president, LDC Corp.;
Nathalie Diamantis, CEO, Pomellato Americas;
Glenn Markman, president and CEO, Facets of Fire Diamonds;
Stacie Orloff, vice president of sales, Marina B;
Charles Stanley, board advisor, Consensus;
Ronnie VanderLinden, owner, Diamex Inc.; and
Eric Zuckerman, CEO, Pac Team Group.

“This incredible leadership team, along with our eminent members, will continue to shepherd collaboration, conversation, and relationships that benefit the jewelry industry, facilitate growth, and advance the industry’s interests,” said Cohen.

The organization also recently announced five newly elected members.

The 24 Karat Club of New York will host its annual banquet on March 15 at Cipriani South Street.

 Related stories will be right here … 
 
Lenore Fedowis the senior editor, news at National Jeweler, covering the retail beat and the business side of jewelry.

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