The World Gold Council has today announced that Aram Shishmanian will be stepping down as Chief Executive Officer next year after 10 years of leadership.
Mr Shishmanian has been CEO of the World Gold Council since January 2009. Under his leadership, the market development organisation has promoted fundamental changes to gold policy in key markets such as China and India, as well as setting new standards in areas such as responsible gold mining and Shari’ah compliant gold investing.
During his time as CEO, the organisation has helped modernise market infrastructure to make gold a mainstream financial asset. It has also introduced new gold investment products to enable gold ownership to become ubiquitous.
David Harquail, Chair of the World Gold Council, said “It has been an absolute pleasure working with Aram over the years. Aram’s vision for the World Gold Council has transformed it into a highly influential organisation, breaking down barriers and developing a more dynamic and effective gold market globally. Aram enjoys strong support from the Board, and we thank him for his constant energy and commitment.”
Mr Shishmanian said: “The World Gold Council plays a pivotal role in increasing demand and expanding the market around the world; it has been a privilege to lead it. Over the past decade we have witnessed; central banks increasing their allocations to gold, the shift from West to East as Asian markets have grown rapidly, and an increasing number of investors turning to gold to enhance their financial security.
“Looking ahead, the World Gold Council has never been more needed. It is a powerful force in our industry, seeking to increase demand for gold, protect gold’s value and relevance on the global stage.”
Mr Shishmanian will remain in his role until the second half of 2019. The search for Aram’s replacement is already underway, to ensure a smooth transition.
ENDS
For further information please contact:
Stephanie Mackrell
World Gold Council
T: +44 20 7826 4700
E: [email protected]
Sarah-Jane Spooner
Edelman
T:+44 20 3047 2587
E:[email protected]
Note to editors:
World Gold Council
The World Gold Council is the market development organisation for the gold industry. Our purpose is to stimulate and sustain demand for gold, provide industry leadership, and be the global authority on the gold market.
We develop gold-backed solutions, services and products, based on authoritative market insight and we work with a range of partners to put our ideas into action. As a result, we create structural shifts in demand for gold across key market sectors. We provide insights into the international gold markets, helping people to understand the wealth preservation qualities of gold and its role in meeting the social and environmental needs of society.
The membership of the World Gold Council includes the world’s leading and most forward thinking gold mining companies.