Susan Jacques will retire from her role as president and CEO of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) at the end of 2025, following an 11-year tenure.
Jacques took on the position in 2014 after a six-month stint as interim CEO. She began her association with the GIA in 1996, serving on the board of governors, and was chair from 2008 to 2014, the GIA said Tuesday. She continued to hold her board position after becoming head of the organization.
Prior to her role at the GIA, Jacques was the head of Borsheims jewelry store, part of the Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate. She has been the recipient of many awards during her time in the industry, including a Lifetime Achievement Gem Award from the Jewelers of America (JA), and the Stanley Schechter Award — given to members of the industry who have raised the trade’s reputation through their dedication, ethics and integrity — by the Jeweler’s Vigilance Committee (JVC).
The GIA governors have set up a committee to initiate a global search for Jacques’s replacement. She will assist with the new hire’s transition, she noted.
“Susan Jacques is an incredible leader for GIA and the global gem and jewelry industry,” said Lisa Locklear, chair of the GIA board of governors. “Under her expert, compassionate and visionary leadership, GIA has achieved new heights of success in often-challenging times. Susan’s dedicated service as president and CEO leaves GIA well-positioned to continue to advance its important mission of ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry.”
Image: Susan Jacques. (Gemological Institute of America)