GC&DC is delighted to welcome eight new council members following the recent open invitation for applications from both in and outside the UK trade. The resulting new council members are named as:
John Ball, managing director of Brown & Newirth; Ruth Faulkner, editor of Retail Jeweller Magazine; Maeve Gillies, designer and founder of MaeVona; Robert Hayes, managing director at BlackRock; Steven Jinks, fine jeweller and jewellery training manager at World Skills U.K.; Judith Lockwood, founder, Mesmeric Distribution; Louise Prior, international diamond consultant; and Pamela Statham, head jewellery designer at CJ UK Ltd., with each bringing their own area of expertise to the GC&DC.
For the first time in its history, the GC&DC welcomed public applications for new members as it continues with its ambition to promote excellence in craftsmanship and design in the UK trade. Overwhelmed by the number and high quality of applicants — and the depth and breadth of diverse skills they presented – Peter Crump, Chairman of GC&DC comments: “This is an incredibly exciting time for the GC&DC as we shape the future of the organisation to achieve its vision to promote and drive excellence and innovation within the jewellery industry. Our new members are all passionate about this tremendously creative and innovative industry and each is keen to play an active role in the future direction of the Council, its annual competition and industry-related activities.”
Speaking of her appointment, new council member Judith Lockwood said: "I am absolutely delighted to be able to play a part, have a voice, learn and help promote the work that the Council does. To join an organisation that’s done this more than 112 years is truly wonderful."
Ruth Faulkner, editor of Retail Jeweller magazine and new council member adds: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining at what is such a pivotal time for the entire jewellery industry. The world has changed in light of the Covid-19 pandemic and I believe this presents a real opportunity for everyone to re-asses and re-evaluate the way they operate and do business… I look forward to working with others from across all areas of the trade to help the Council develop and evolve.”
New council member and Brown & Newirth managing director John Ball states: “To have been accepted as a member of the GC&DC is one of my most outstanding professional achievements. As a member of the Council, I am afforded the platform to give something back to an industry that has been very kind to me… I look forward to positively impacting the lives of others and promoting our fantastic trade for many years to come.”
The recently launched 2021 competition with exciting new categories and design briefs are all available here. With 32 sections, 19 Special Awards and six Major and Premier Awards, the 2021 competition is set to be an exceptional year.
This news has been covered in Professional Jeweller & Retail Jeweller.