CRJP Appoints new CEO & Program Director

The Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices (CRJP) has named Michael L. Rae as CEO, and Santiago Porto as program director. Both positions will be effective as of early February, the CRJP said in a press release on January 23.

As CEO, Rae will work to expand the membership in the CRJP, communicate with various stakeholders and supervise the development of the Council�s Responsible Business Framework. Rae will also be charged with promoting awareness, understanding and continuous improvement within the industry on key ethical, social and environmental issues. Rae has worked for the WWF, formerly known as the World Wildlife Fund, since 1989. �I have taken this role because I think the CRJP represents a fantastic opportunity to ensure good social and environmental performance in the jewelry industry, from mine to market,� said Rae.

As program director Porto will be responsible for executing the council�s programs, including the development of the CRJP principles and code of practices and their associated implementation and monitoring. He will work to provide the appropriate guidance, training and education for CRJP members and their business partners. Porto has been membership development manager for the Ethical Trading Initiative in London, a multi-stakeholder organization promoting international labor standards in global supply chains in the footwear and clothing industry. He also managed projects engaging business, civil society and government with the United Nations Development Programme in Mozambique. �I enjoy getting programs off the ground, developing relationships and working at a global level,� said Porto. �My experience with multiple stakeholders on various issues will enable me to effectively implement the council�s programs.�