Key points
- Paul De Wachter’s journey in the diamond sector began in 2002 at the Antwerp Diamond Bank, where he rose to senior relationship manager before joining Channel Capital Advisors in a similar capacity.
- As HRD Antwerp moves into this new chapter, the global gem community is watching closely to see how De Wachter’s leadership will help reposition the institution at a time when authenticity, traceability, and trust are more critical than ever.
- Belgium’s leading gemmological laboratory, HRD Antwerp, a subsidiary of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, has announced the appointment of diamond industry veteran Paul De Wachter as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2026.
Gems and Jewelry News: HRD Antwerp Enters a New Era of Leadership
Belgium’s leading gemmological laboratory, HRD Antwerp, a subsidiary of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, has announced the appointment of diamond industry veteran Paul De Wachter as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2026. De Wachter’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the organization as it prepares for transformation and renewed global competitiveness.
HRD Antwerp names industry veteran Paul De Wachter as its next CEO, signaling renewed focus on growth, trust, and adaptation in the global diamond market.
Image Credit: HRD Antwerp
This Gems and Jewelry News report notes that De Wachter succeeds former CEO Ellen Joncheere, with Stanley De Belie serving as interim CEO during the transition. The HRD board cited De Wachter’s deep understanding of international diamond finance and market strategy as key to guiding HRD Antwerp through its next phase of growth and adaptation.
A Veteran with Proven Industry Expertise
Paul De Wachter’s journey in the diamond sector began in 2002 at the Antwerp Diamond Bank, where he rose to senior relationship manager before joining Channel Capital Advisors in a similar capacity. His most defining work, however, has been with the National Bank of Fujairah (NBF), where he has spent over seven years. Initially appointed to head the bank’s Antwerp Representative Office, De Wachter built a robust network among diamond clients before taking over as Head of the Diamond Unit in 2020. His leadership there helped expand NBF’s brand and reinforce its foothold in the global diamond market.
Charting HRD Antwerp’s Future Amid Industry Challenges
HRD Board Director Bart De Hantsetters emphasized that De Wachter’s extensive connections and his track record of delivering measurable results made him the ideal choice to lead HRD Antwerp forward. De Wachter acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, particularly the rise of lab-grown diamonds and the growing need for transparent certification standards. “HRD needs a strong, clear vision and determined leadership to deliver on its role as a trusted partner for clients,” he stated.
As HRD Antwerp moves into this new chapter, the global gem community is watching closely to see how De Wachter’s leadership will help reposition the institution at a time when authenticity, traceability, and trust are more critical than ever. The industry’s evolution is accelerating, and HRD Antwerp’s response under his direction could reshape its legacy for the coming decade.
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