The NAJ co-opts two new members to its national committee

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has announced the co-option of Kerry Saunders, operations director at Domino Jewellery, and Neil Ventura, CEO of Ventura Fine Jewellery, to its national committee board.

Saunders comes with over 25 years of extensive experience in manufacturing, and throughout her career, she has honed her expertise in the processes of production and supply chain management, ensuring the “highest standards of quality and compliance”.

In her current role at Weston Beamor, Saunders oversees manufacturing operations and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Reporting Standards (ESRS), continuing to advance the company’s commitment to ethical practices and environmental stewardship.

Meanwhile, Ventura is the founder and CEO of Ventura Fine Jewellery, a bespoke-led jewellery business based in Henley on Thames.

Ventura previously built a successful and distinguished career with the De Beers Group. He progressed from buying, selling, and auctioning diamonds worldwide, including several exceptional rare diamonds, to becoming an integral part of the De Beers executive team and pioneering changes in established regional and global businesses.

Ventura served most recently as executive vice president for the group’s Strategy and Innovation function from retail to mining, where, alongside developing the group’s strategy, he had executive responsibility for building several new ventures for the organisation, including a laboratory-grown diamond jewellery business, Lightbox, and a blockchain-based digital traceability platform, Tracr.

Saunders and Ventura will become full members of the National Committee at the NAJ’s 2025 annual general meeting

Saunders said: “I am honoured to join the NAJ’s National Committee and look forward to continuing the advancement of the jewellery industry. Together, we will work to uphold the highest standards of excellence and responsibility in our industry.”

Ventura added: “I’m delighted to be joining the National Committee to help progress the Association’s strategy and, in doing so, drive the competitiveness of the UK Jewellery sector. The Association is in a good position to help businesses foster innovation and stay ahead of global trends, both key areas I’m looking forward to working on.”

Adam Jacobs, NAJ chair, concluded: “We are delighted to welcome Kerry and Neil to the NAJ’s National Committee. Their experience and targeted expertise will provide an invaluable resource to progress the NAJ’s aims and help it deliver for its members and wider trade.”