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After more than 50 years, Jeff Roberts is handing over ownership of the organization to IJO President Stephen Barnes.
Stephen Barnes, who has been an IJO leader for many years and was appointed president in 2023, is now taking over as owner of the organization.
Palm Springs, Calif.—The Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) has a new owner, Stephen Barnes.
The announcement was made by outgoing owner Jeff Roberts during IJO’s semi-annual conference in Palm Springs, California.
“Stephen has been an integral part of the IJO family for over 25 years and has played a vital role in our organization’s success,” said Roberts.
“When I appointed him as president in August 2023, I was seeking fresh leadership to propel IJO into the future. Since then, he has demonstrated remarkable vision and dedication, making his transition to owner both natural and exciting. I have no doubt he will lead IJO to even greater heights.”
Barnes has been a longtime IJO leader with a track record of success, said the organization, which makes IJO poised for an exciting new era of expansion and innovation.
He entered the jewelry industry at an early age as a craftsman. He mastered hand engraving, watch repair, and jewelry restoration and created award-winning jewelry designs.
Barnes has over 35 years of experience in retail jewelry, having managed his family’s multi-store business and operated his own store as an absentee owner. His expertise includes business growth, financial strategy, and transition management.
He is also a consultant who has helped businesses develop systems, tools, and processes to drive long-term success.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in business management from the University of Mt. Olive, is a GIA Graduate Gemologist, and holds the title of Master Graduate Gemologist from IJO—the latter of which is held by less than 40 professionals worldwide, said IJO.
“IJO’s strength is our unity. As we move forward, we will continue to elevate the industry while upholding the highest standards of integrity and innovation. Since stepping into leadership, I have focused on modernizing our educational programs, expanding IJO teams, and enhancing next generation initiatives,” said Barnes.
“I look forward to connecting [with] all our members on a more personal level over the next few months to better understand how we can help them continue to grow. I’m truly honored to lead IJO into this exciting new chapter.”
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The announcement was made by outgoing owner Jeff Roberts during IJO’s semi-annual conference in Palm Springs, California.
“Stephen has been an integral part of the IJO family for over 25 years and has played a vital role in our organization’s success,” said Roberts.
“When I appointed him as president in August 2023, I was seeking fresh leadership to propel IJO into the future. Since then, he has demonstrated remarkable vision and dedication, making his transition to owner both natural and exciting. I have no doubt he will lead IJO to even greater heights.”
Barnes has been a longtime IJO leader with a track record of success, said the organization, which makes IJO poised for an exciting new era of expansion and innovation.
He entered the jewelry industry at an early age as a craftsman. He mastered hand engraving, watch repair, and jewelry restoration and created award-winning jewelry designs.
Barnes has over 35 years of experience in retail jewelry, having managed his family’s multi-store business and operated his own store as an absentee owner. His expertise includes business growth, financial strategy, and transition management.
He is also a consultant who has helped businesses develop systems, tools, and processes to drive long-term success.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in business management from the University of Mt. Olive, is a GIA Graduate Gemologist, and holds the title of Master Graduate Gemologist from IJO—the latter of which is held by less than 40 professionals worldwide, said IJO.
“IJO’s strength is our unity. As we move forward, we will continue to elevate the industry while upholding the highest standards of integrity and innovation. Since stepping into leadership, I have focused on modernizing our educational programs, expanding IJO teams, and enhancing next generation initiatives,” said Barnes.
“I look forward to connecting [with] all our members on a more personal level over the next few months to better understand how we can help them continue to grow. I’m truly honored to lead IJO into this exciting new chapter.”
Roberts, who is handing over ownership, has been “the heart and soul of IJO,” said the organization.
He has been with IJO for more than 50 years, from recruiting members to leading as president, CEO, and owner.
“IJO has been my life for more than five decades, and now is the perfect time to pass the torch to a leader I trust wholeheartedly,” said Roberts.
“The relationships I’ve built with our members are invaluable, and while I will certainly miss my role, I have complete confidence that Stephen will lead IJO with passion, integrity, and a visionary approach.”
For membership inquiries, contact Penny Palmer at penny@ijo.com or 800-624-9252.
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