Industry expert Ari Epstein is leaving his post as CEO of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) after more than a decade of leading the organisation.

AWDC Chairman of the Board Isidore Mörsel, who made the announcement on April 11, 2024, said Epstein’s departure will take effect next Tuesday, April 16, 2024. Mörsel remarked, “This marks the end of an era of visionary leadership and significant contributions not only to our company, but the industry at large.”

AWDC experienced “unparalleled growth, innovation and expansion” under Epstein’s leadership, which in turn, has bolstered AWDC’s position as a global leader in the diamond industry, added Mörsel.

Epstein became CEO of AWDC in January 2011 after a two-year stint as deputy CEO. He previously served as director of the centre’s Diamond Office.

“Ari Epstein’s forward-thinking approach has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of the global market and setting new benchmarks for transparency and success,” shared Mörsel. “We are committed to building upon the solid foundation laid by Ari Epstein, continuing to innovate, and driving forward our mission of excellence and sustainability in the diamond industry.”

AWDC, a foundation established by the diamond industry, is the coordinating body and official global representative of the Antwerp diamond industry. AWDC said 84 per cent of all rough diamonds and 50 per cent of all polished diamonds pass through Antwerp annually.