WJA Brings New Executive Director on Board

RAPAPORT... The Women's Jewelry Association (WJA) has appointed JenniferMarkas as executive director, succeeding Bernadette Mack. Markas was previously in charge of sustainability reportingand communications at Tiffany & Co., and was an event leader in thejeweler's first employee resource group for women. She also founded and headeddevelopment for Damsels in Design, a networking organization that fosteredprofessional and educational opportunities for women in the design industry. "Jennifer's passion for women's issues coupled with anunderstanding of the jewelry and design industries uniquely prepares her tosupport our members and partners and lead WJA's efforts to advance equality anddiversity in the fine-jewelry and watch industries," WJA president Jenny Lukersaid last week. In light of Mack's departure, the WJA has moved itsheadquarters back to New York City from Virginia. Markas will assume her newrole on September 10, and Mack, who has been with WJA since 2012, will workwith her until the end of the month, WJA noted. Image: Jennifer Markas. (Women's Jewelry Association)