The Diamond High Council (HRD) has named David Van Riel, an external public relations consultant, as its interim public relations director. Van Riel will take over these tasks from Youri Steverlynck, who leaves HRD at the end of March.

Philip Claes, the HRD�s director of corporate affairs, will assume those responsibilities from Steverlynck�s role as the lead spokesperson related to dealing with the Belgian government. Claes joined HRD�s legal department in 2002. He has been involved in the implementation of the anti-money laundering legislation and discussions with Belgian government on industry regulations.

Van Riel said he will take his first steps as HRD public relations head at the Baselworld fair in Switzerland. Van Riel said he is �looking forward to meeting and listening to the trade in all its facets.� Van Riel�s current appointment at the HRD runs through the end of 2006.