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New York, NY--The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) named Amber Pepper chief executive officer of the diamond industry marketing organization. Her appointment becomes effective February 1, 2026.

Pepper will replace David Kellie, who served as CEO since 2019. Keillie announced his retirement in July and will leave the organization at the end of the year. Kellie led the Council’s re-brand from the Diamond Producers Association to the Natural Diamond Council. He is credited with strengthening relationships across the industry and navigating the organization through major challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

In statement released Friday, the NDC described Pepper “as a seasoned global leader in luxury brand transformation” who “brings a wealth of experience in driving commercial growth, digital innovation, and consumer-centric storytelling across some of the world’s most respected fashion and retail brands.”

Pepper has served leadership roles for consumer retail brands. Most recently she served as chief marketing and customer officer and managing director at the luxury digital platform, Mytheresa. She also served senior roles at Tapestry, Farfetch and Harrods. Her work focused on building emotionally resonant brands and connecting with Gen Z and luxury consumers across global markets.

“Her experience in leading omnichannel strategies and building high-performing teams will be central to guiding the NDC’s next phase of growth,” NDC said in its statement.

In her new role, the NDC said she will "focus on shaping a compelling narrative that reinforces the desirability of natural diamonds and drives measurable commercial outcomes.” She is also charged with strengthening consumer demand and industry partnerships. A key priority will be expanding digital engagement with younger consumers to inspire emotional connection and long-term loyalty.

“(Pepper’s) global perspective, commercial expertise and deep understanding of luxury consumers make her an exceptional choice to lead the Council and galvanize the industry,” said Sandrine Conseiller, NDC chair.