Runci Retires from Jewelers of America

Matthew A. Runci, the president of Jewelers of America (JA) for more than 17 years, will retire on December 31, 2012. David J. Bonaparte, formerly the vice president of JCK Brands for Reed Exhibitions, will take the helm of the national jewelry trade association effective January 1, 2013, according to press release by JA.
During his leadership, Runci worked with JA's board of directors to assure that the association focused on enhancing professionalism, transparency and consumer confidence. In the years since, he has helped establish JA - and its members - as leaders in responsible business practices. Among his many career achievements, Runci took a lead role in the establishment of the Kimberley Process, the Clean Diamond Trade Act, and helped found the Responsible Jewellery Council, which positioned the fine jewelry industry as a pioneer of supply chain transparency.
Runci and Bonaparte have worked together since October to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. Bonaparte will focus on continuing JA's public policy work, in addition to enhancing its membership, both in terms of size and benefits.
On the cusp of his retirement, Runci will receive a well-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award at Jewelry Information Center's annual GEM Awards on January 11.