Belgium-based gemmological laboratory HRD Antwerp, a subsidiary of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, has appointed industry expert Paul De Wachter as new CEO effective January 2026.

As CEO, De Wachter is tasked with strengthening HRD’s position in the international diamond trade and leading the organisation through a period of transformation. He is replacing former CEO Ellen Joncheere while Stanley De Belie was named interim CEO during the transition phase. 

De Wachter began his career in the diamond sector in 2002 and rose to the position of senior relationship manager at the Antwerp Diamond Bank. After a brief period at Channel Capital Advisors in a similar role, he joined the National Bank of Fujairah (NBF), where he has been active for more than seven years. He started there as head of the Antwerp Representative Office, focusing on building a strong local client portfolio. Since 2020, he has served as head of the Diamond Unit, where he expanded the bank’s brand and significantly strengthened its market position. 

HRD Board Director Bart De Hantsetters cited De Wachter’s extensive experience in the international diamond industry, relevant network and the concrete results he achieved as head of NBF’s Diamond Unit as compelling reasons why he was tasked with leading HRD Antwerp into the future.

De Wachter commented, “I am fully aware of the amount of work that lies ahead at a time when the international diamond industry is facing major challenges, including the rise of lab-grown diamonds. HRD needs a strong, clear vision and determined leadership to deliver on its role as a trusted partner for its clients.”