The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has appointed Pritesh Patel as its president and CEO, to succeed Susan Jacques, effective 4 August 2025.
Susan Jacques, the current president and CEO since 2014, will continue at GIA as a strategic advisor until her retirement at the end of 2025. Jacques has been governor and board chair for three decades. During her tenure as CEO, Jacques led GIA through significant changes in the industry, global economic and political shifts, disruptions, changing consumer preferences and the COVID-19 pandemic. She safeguarded the institute’s reputation for integrity and independence and maintained a steadfast focus on GIA’s mission to uphold consumer confidence in gems and jewellery. She worked on GIA’s extensive research programmes, industry-leading education initiatives, specialized instrument development and scientifically backed, reliable laboratory services, said GIA.
According to GIA, Patel joined the institute in 2015 as chief information officer and was named senior VP and chief operating officer two years later. In his current role, he has been responsible for operational strategy, planning, developing and implementing innovative solutions.
The board of governors, with a dedicated CEO search committee, conducted an extensive global search, considering candidates within the institute, as well as those from the gem and jewellery industry and those with other relevant expertise and experience. (Photo courtesy: GIA)
10-07-2025
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