The World Diamond Council (WDC) has announced that Stephane Fischler is now its vice-president. As a founding member of the WDC, Fischler has been actively involved in the organization since its inception.
The WDC is comprised of members representing the entire international diamond industry supply chain. The group itself represents the diamond industry in the implementation of systems developed by the United Nations and the Kimberley Process (KP) to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the legitimate diamond trade.
“I am honored to be working with President Polyakov, the WDC Board of Directors and our membership,” says Fischler. “The WDC’s role in representing the industry at the Kimberley Process forum is critically important to the success and integrity of the KP. I look forward to contributing to this valuable work.”
A partner in Fischler Diamonds company, Fischler currently serves as the president of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), vice-president of the International Diamond Council (IDC) and Diamond Development Initiative, and treasurer of the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA). He is also a current member of the Board of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC).
“Stephane Fischler’s extensive knowledge and experience, not only in the industry, but specifically with the KP, is invaluable to the WDC,” says Andrey Polyakov, president of the WDC. “We now have a great team in place to continue our focus on engaging with and enhancing the Kimberley Process, to the benefit of all concerned.”
Ronnie VanderLinden was also re-elected as Treasurer of the WDC for a second term, and Udi Sheintal will continue in the position of Corporate Secretary. Per the WDC Bylaws, Fischler will succeed Polyakov as president of the WDC at the end of his two-year term in 2018.
