To find the appropriate candidate to fit the role of Executive Director and to head the organisation, the World Diamond Council (WDC) under the authority of the WDC President and Executive Committee, has taken its search across the globe. This is the first time that the industry organization will be head by a salaried administrator.

The portfolio of the new Executive Director will include day-to-day management of the organization, budget and membership drives, giving strategic direction, liaising with government, stakeholders and other organizations, and representing the WDC in the Kimberley Process and various of its committees.

The application for the role has certain criteria amongst which imperatives are a minimum of 10-15 years' experience in an administrative experience, with at least five years in a senior management position. Also, an experience with extractives, commodities, manufacturing, specialty goods, retail or product supply chains is mentioned as an advantage, as also, knowledge about corporate and social responsibility, voluntary commitments and the implementation of intergovernmental agreements, and also the Kimberley Process.

"The appointment of an Executive Director will be a key step in our process to reform the WDC, and to equip it to meet the challenges of the future," said Edward Asscher, WDC President. "It is a position that encompasses real challenge, and also one in which an individual can bring about positive change, both in the industry and in the lives of our stakeholders."