Majors

Former Jacmel EVP Joins Luxury Brand Holdings Board

MajorsJul 10, 2018

Former Jacmel EVP Joins Luxury Brand Holdings Board

Evan Berkley has more than two decades of jewelry industry experience.  

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Evan Berkley, a former EVP at Jacmel Jewelry, has joined the board of directors of Luxury Brand Holdings, the parent company of Ross-Simons and Sidney Thomas.

Cranston, R.I.--Ross-Simons and Sidney Thomas parent company Luxury Brand Holdings has added jewelry industry veteran Evan Berkley to its board of directors.

Berkley joins with more than 23 years of experience, having held roles in production, sales and operations.

He recently was appointed the CEO of Mr. Christmas, which creates, designs and markets mechanical and musical decorations.

Prior to that, Berkley was partner and executive vice president of Jacmel Jewelry. He joined the family-owned business in 1994, serving in roles in sales, merchandising and product development, as well as helping to oversee its Italian office.

He also serves on the board of directors of Jewelers for Children, the Cancer Support Community in New Jersey and the Vendor Advisory Board for the Qurate Group. He previously served as vice chairman of Gilda’s Club Worldwide/Cancer Support Community in Washington, D.C.

“He brings vast experience and understanding of the jewelry industry alongside strong business acumen,” President James M. Speltz said. “He will be a valuable asset to our team and our customers as we continue to expand our portfolio of curated fine jewelry at incredible values.”

Berkley’s appointment comes as Luxury Brand Holdings continues to expand, most recently through its online presence and redesign of the Ross-Simons.com.

The company also recently announced a collaboration with an American cross-country skier, Olympic gold medalist and nine-time national champion Jessie Diggins.

According to National Jeweler’s 2017 State of the Majors report, Luxury Brand Holdings saw sales increase year-over-year--from $426 million in 2015 to $498 million in 2016--with fewer stores--seven as of the end of 2016, down from 12 in 2015.

Michelle Graffis the editor-in-chief at National Jeweler, directing the publication’s coverage both online and in print.

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