GIA appoints Pritesh Patel as president and CEO

Pritesh Patel has been appointed president and chief government of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), efficient 4 August 2025.

Patel, who at present serves as chief working officer, will succeed Susan Jacques, who has led the institute since 2014. Jacques will keep on as a strategic advisor till her retirement on the finish of the 12 months.

The appointment follows a worldwide search carried out by the GIA board of governors, which thought-about candidates each inside and outdoors the organisation.

Patel joined GIA in 2015 as chief info officer and was promoted to senior vice chairman and chief working officer in 2017. 

In his present position, he oversees operational technique and innovation. He beforehand held senior positions at CIRCOR Worldwide, a producer of engineered merchandise for the vitality and aerospace sectors.

In the meantime, Jacques led GIA via trade and financial shifts, altering shopper habits and the COVID-19 pandemic. She championed its analysis, training, instrument growth and laboratory providers whereas sustaining its independence and integrity.

Patel mentioned: “It’s the honour of a lifetime to guide an establishment as trusted and iconic as GIA. I’m impressed by GIA’s legacy of excellence and integrity, and I’m dedicated to constructing on that basis with humility, goal and a daring imaginative and prescient for the longer term.”

Jacques added: “I’ve at all times been a passionate advocate for GIA, its vital mission of belief and its distinctive position as an trade chief within the world gem and jewelry trade. I’m delighted that the Board of Governors has chosen Pritesh as my successor and the following chief of this superb organisation.”

Lisa Locklear, chair of the board, concluded: “I’ve been related to GIA for many of my grownup life, first as a scholar, then as a Governor and as CEO for the final 12 years. I’ve at all times been a passionate advocate for GIA, its vital mission of belief and its distinctive position as an trade chief within the world gem and jewelry trade. 

“I’m delighted that the board of governors has chosen Pritesh as my successor and the following chief of this superb organisation. I, together with our GIA colleagues, will do the whole lot we will to make sure his success. I’m assured that GIA’s finest days are forward.”