HRD Antwerp Names New CEO

HRD Antwerp has appointed Paul De Wachter as its new CEO, succeeding Ellen Joncheere.

De Wachter started working in the diamond industry in 2002 as senior relationship manager at the Antwerp Diamond Bank, the company said last week. He was also head of the diamond unit at the National Bank of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, where since 2020 he has driven growth to the bank’s brand and bolstered its market position.

As CEO of HRD, Wachter will focus on enhancing the diamond lab’s standing as a trusted partner in the international diamond sector and leading it through a time of substantial transition. He will assume the new position in January 2026.

De Wachter is “fully aware” of the scope of the work ahead, “at a time when the international diamond industry is facing major challenges, including the rise of lab-grown diamonds,” he said. “HRD needs a strong, clear vision and determined leadership to deliver on its role as a trusted partner for its clients. In my role as CEO, I will do everything I can to make that happen.” 

Joncheere is stepping down after five years as CEO. To maintain continuity throughout the transition, HRD chief operations officer Stanley De Belie will serve as interim CEO until De Wachter begins in his role.

Image: Paul De Wachter. (HRD Antwerp)