The Jewellers Association of Australia (JAA) Board is pleased to announce the appointment of two new directors to the Board, effective from 1 January 2021.

The appointments come due to vacancies on the Board created when George Proszkowiec departed in September 2019 and from the recent resignation of Karen Lindley.

Joshua Sharp joins the Board having been at the helm as the General Manager of Ian Sharp Jewellery for the past 13 years, where his focus has been in business operations and finance. His jewellery specialties within the business include diamonds and second hand jewellery. Joshua also comes to the Board with a strong background having previously worked in banking and finance.

With over 30 years of dedication to the Australian jewellery industry, Karen Denaro enters her Board position as the Owner and Managing Director of Brilliamo Designer Jeweller and Designer at Denaro Designs. Karen’s expansive experience in all sectors of the industry include retail, wholesale, manufacturing, design and product development, buying/sourcing, marketing, and branding. She is also skilled in diamond grading, gem identification, trend analysis and forecasting. Additionally, her experience extends to media and she has a passion for working with SMEs and start-up businesses.

JAA President, Jo Tory says “We are thrilled to have these two new enthusiastic directors join the Board. They bring a varying degree of experience and knowledge, both in and outside of the jewellery industry, which is imperative to ensuring the longevity of an organisation such as the JAA. The continuing directors and I welcome them and look forward to their considered input.”

Vacating the JAA Board on 31 December 2020 was Karen Lindley. Karen’s departure comes due to a significant ongoing commitment outside of the jewellery industry. Karen first served on the JAA Board in 2004 to 2006 and again from 2016 to 2020. Karen’s commitment and dedication to the JAA and jewellery industry has been invaluable and we thank her for her service.

“It is with a heavy heart we farewell Karen Lindley from the Board – she has always held a strong passion for the JAA and the work it does for the industry. She will be missed but myself and Board wish her all the best for her future endeavours.” Says Jo Tory.

Continuing JAA Board members include:

Jo Tory, Najo
Emily Crews, Warner Music
Cameron Marks, Percy Marks
Ronnie Bauer, Klepners

The current Board and their profiles can be found at jaa.com.au/board-of-directors