Natural Diamond Council Names New CEO

Suzanne Watkin

The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) has appointed Amber Pepper to succeed David Kellie as CEO from February 1, 2026.

Pepper brings to the group years of experience in commercial growth and digital innovation, the council said last week. She has held senior positions at fashion and retail labels, including Tapestry, Farfetch, and Harrods. Most recently, she was chief marketing and customer officer and managing director at the high-end digital platform Mytheresa. Pepper has focused on building brands and engaging with Gen Z and luxury consumers around the world.

In her new position, Pepper will work to strengthen consumer demand and industry partnerships in an effort to preserve the distinction and relevance of natural diamonds. A major focus will be increasing digital engagement with younger audiences and applying data-driven insights.

[Pepper’s] global perspective, commercial expertise, and deep understanding of luxury consumers make her an exceptional choice to lead the council and galvanize the industry,” said NDC chair Sandrine Conseiller.

Outgoing CEO Kellie will retire at the end of the year. Since joining the NDC in 2019, he oversaw its transition from the Diamond Producers Association to the NDC, strengthened industry relationships, and guided the organization through challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the NDC said.

Image: Amber Pepper. (Natural Diamond Council)

Source : Rapaport