Kendra Scott Returns as CEO of Her Jewelry Empire
Three C-suite executives, including former CEO Tom Nolan, have resigned as part of what the company describes as a “transition.”

The move, first reported by AdWeek on Aug. 15, follows the departure of three C-suite executives, including CEO Tom Nolan, Chief Financial Officer Jason Friesen, and Chief People Officer Danielle Stewart.
In a LinkedIn post shared Monday, Nolan shared his thoughts on leaving the company after 11 years and the gratitude he feels toward Scott.
“From Day 1, I witnessed Kendra’s vision, tenacity, kindness, and purpose-driven passion. It has been one of the greatest privileges of my career to help build on that foundation to work alongside a true friend and our amazing team in shaping a brand that touches lives far beyond jewelry,” he wrote.
Their resignations were part of the transition into a new phase of expansion, a company spokesperson said, adding the retailer is “grateful for the leadership, expertise, and vision they brought to Kendra Scott.”
Scott was the CEO of her company from its founding in 2002 until 2021, when she handed the reins to Nolan and took on the role of executive chairwoman. She will now serve as interim CEO.
Neal Bronzo will serve as the interim CFO and chief operating officer.
Bronzo has been with the company since 2021 and most recently served as chief of staff. He held the interim CFO role once before in 2022, as per his LinkedIn profile.
Beth Ley, a human resources executive who was with the company for seven years before departing in 2022, as per LinkedIn, will return to her role as chief people officer on Sept. 2.
Scott recently increased her majority ownership stake in the company through a 65 Equity transaction.
The private equity firm acquired a “significant” minority stake in Kendra Scott in September 2024.
The move to increase her stake signals a deep long-term commitment to the brand she built from the ground up, the company said.
Scott started her jewelry and accessories company just three months after the birth of her son, with only $500 to invest in her start-up, based out of a spare bedroom.
She is one of the richest women in America, landing at No. 41 on the 2025 Forbes “Richest Self-Made Women” list, with an estimated worth of $900 million.
“With a customer-first mission, a talented and dedicated team, and the momentum of a record-breaking year, the brand is well-positioned to build on its success and deliver meaningful products and experiences for our customers worldwide,” the company said.
The Latest

Flower motifs are the jewelry trend blooming amongst the new collections that debuted this spring.

The “Devil” drop earrings, our Piece of the Week, are part of designer Edina Kiss’ new namesake jewelry line that she will show at Couture.

The alert states that burglary crews are targeting jewelry businesses and details how jewelers and refineries can protect themselves.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

The “watchmaker of shapes” debuted the reworked version of the vintage sports car-inspired timepiece at Watches & Wonders.


As demand for jewelry retail coaching grows, the company has established a dedicated business coaching leadership team.

Sally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.

Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

The luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.

Kalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.

“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.

The campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.

Plus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.

Presented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.

The group has announced its lineup of speakers and a new “Rising Stars” pavilion.

The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.

The program provides essential funding to organizations for projects that enhance the jewelry industry.

The jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.

JSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.

The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.

The “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.

Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.

In her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.

“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”

Organizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.






















