Market & Industry

Jewelers Vigilance Committee Elects New Leadership to Navigate Industry Changes

Julie Yoakum, Chairperson of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee board of directors.
Julie Yoakum, Chairperson of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee board of directors. - nationaljeweler.com

The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) has announced significant changes in its leadership, electing Julie Yoakum, president of Kay and Peoples Jewelers, as its new chairperson. This move, alongside the appointment of five new board members, signals the organization’s commitment to strong governance and proactive industry advocacy as the jewelry sector faces increasing regulatory complexity and evolving ethical standards.

New Leadership and Expanded Board

The JVC’s updated board structure reflects a strategic focus on addressing the dynamic legal, ethical, and compliance challenges within the modern jewelry industry. The newly elected officers and board members bring a diverse range of expertise from across the retail, manufacturing, education, communications, merchandising, insurance, and supply chain sectors.

Julie Yoakum, stepping into the role of chairperson, emphasized the JVC’s crucial function. ‘The Jewelers Vigilance Committee plays a critical role in protecting trust across our industry,’ Yoakum stated. ‘I am honored to serve alongside such a thoughtful group of leaders as we continue to support businesses and uphold the standards that matter to consumers.’

Sara Yood, CEO and General Counsel of JVC, highlighted the board’s readiness to guide the industry. ‘JVC exists to help the jewelry industry navigate change with clarity and confidence,’ Yood said. ‘As legal and regulatory expectations continue to evolve, this board brings the experience and perspective needed to ensure the industry has trusted guidance and a strong, independent voice.’

Key Appointments and Board Members

The JVC board will be led by the following officers:

  • Chairperson: Julie Yoakum, President of Kay and Peoples Jewelers
  • Past Chairperson: Rebecca Foerster, Hearts on Fire
  • 1st Vice President: Michael Richards, Underwood Jewelers
  • 2nd Vice President: John Kreul, Jewelers Mutual Insurance Group
  • Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair: Mark Goldberg, Rolex Watch USA
  • Corporate Secretary and Legal Action Committee Chair: Lisa Lackland, Ben Bridge Jeweler

Five new members have joined the board, bringing fresh perspectives and extensive industry knowledge:

  • Arien Gessner: President of Rio Grande, Richline Group’s jewelry industry supply division. Gessner brings experience in digital marketing, e-commerce, and a background in national laboratory security.
  • Charlie Green: Director of Stores at Lux Bond & Green Jewelers. Representing the fifth generation of his family business, Green also has experience working in New York City and holds degrees in Criminal Justice and Gemology.
  • Johanna Levy: Vice President of Communications and ESG at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Levy manages global communications strategy and advises on brand reputation.
  • Tina Moretti: Senior Vice President at GoldStar Jewellery LLC. With over 30 years in the industry, Moretti focuses on aligning creative direction with sales initiatives and partnerships.
  • Tara Zerr: Divisional Vice President of Merchandising at Helzberg. Zerr has over 24 years of retail leadership experience, overseeing various merchandise categories.

Continuing Board Support

The JVC also benefits from the continued service of several experienced board members, including:

  • Scott Berg, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry
  • Katherine Bodoh, American Gem Society (AGS)
  • Richard Corbo, Chanel
  • Brandee Dallow, Grandview Klein Diamonds
  • Annie Doresca, Diamond Council of America
  • Steven Holtzman, C.D. Peacock
  • Jenny Luker, Platinum Guild International (PGI) USA
  • Malyia McNaughton, Made by Malyia
  • Belit Myers, Stuller, Inc.
  • Shekhar Shah, Real Gems Inc.

JVC’s Role in the Industry

The Jewelers Vigilance Committee operates as the industry’s independent legal authority, offering essential education, guidance, advocacy, and monitoring. Its work focuses on advertising standards, regulatory compliance, and navigating the complex landscape of legal and ethical issues. By providing this support, the JVC aims to protect consumer trust while assisting jewelry businesses of all sizes in meeting their legal obligations.

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