Susan Jacques to retire as GIA president and CEO

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has announced the planned retirement of its president and CEO, Susan Jacques, at the end of 2025.

Jacques became GIA’s president and CEO on 1 January 2014 after serving as interim CEO for six months. Before that, she was a member of the GIA board of governors since 1996; she was chair of the board from 2008 to 2014. As CEO, she continued as a member of the board.

Following the news of Jaques’ departure, the institute has begun a global search for a successor, and a dedicated search committee of GIA governors will consider internal and external candidates.

The global search will be co-led by Korn Ferry’s senior client partners Lorraine Lavet and Chris Von Der Ahe.

Lisa Locklear, chair of the GIA Board of governors, said: “Susan Jacques is an incredible leader for GIA and the global gem and jewelry industry. 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.”

Jacques added: “At GIA, I have been fortunate to lead one of the industry’s most trusted organizations and our passionate teams around the world as we ensure the truth about gems through innovation, service and knowledge. I am confident and optimistic about the future success of GIA and the gem and jewelry industry as I enter this next chapter of my life. I will assist with the transition of GIA’s next leader through the end of this year.”