Two key figures at De Beers Group will leave the company next year, coinciding with the unveiling of a new organisational structure and executive committee.

David Prager, executive vice president and chief brand officer, and Ryan Perry, acting executive vice president of strategy and innovation, are stepping down from their positions in 2024. 

Tom Johnson, who initially joined De Beers as a member of Element Six in 2016, will assume the role of general counsel from January 1, 2024. He will oversee De Beers’ legal and company-secretariat functions. He will also be part of the executive committee.

According to De Beers, both Prager and Perry will continue to serve on the executive committee while overseeing the transition of their responsibilities to other members. Prager will also continue to serve as chairman of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) until a successor is elected by the NDC Board.

Prager, who joined De Beers in 2006, was credited for leading the transformation of De Beers’ purpose and brand over the last 17 years.

Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, said Prager had “transformed our brand and marketing strategy; managed complex issues in a way that built trust with stakeholders and strengthened our reputation around the world.” 

Prager also designed a sustainability framework for the company. 

Perry, for his part, joined De Beers in 2002. He has worked in operational and strategic leadership roles across the value chain.

Cook said Perry had led various programmes during the pandemic as well as the creation of the Diamonds for Development Fund in Botswana.