Karen Rentmeesters Appointed New CEO of Antwerp World Diamond Centre

The Board of Directors of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre appointed Karen Rentmeesters as the new, permanent CEO. In this new role, she is tasked with guiding Antwerp back to growth, among other things, by focusing on optimizing AWDC’s operations. 

Karen Rentmeesters, who began her career at the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) in 2010, has accumulated a wealth of experience in the past 14 years. Starting as a Communications Officer, she progressed to leading the PR & Industry Relations department and assuming the role of interim CEO three months ago, a role which is now confirmed in a permanent appointment. Her impressive track record within the ranks of the AWDC, as noted by Isidore Mörsel, President of the AWDC Board of Directors, underscores her readiness for this new role. 

“The fact that all board members unanimously agreed to appoint Karen as permanent CEO of the AWDC speaks volumes about the trust we all put in her”, says Mörsel. “Karen can count on her vast experience in the diamond industry, an extensive network, and the necessary expertise. In the past three months, as interim CEO, she has demonstrated to be an absolute added value for the organization. She has a solid understanding of our industry and of the challenges our industry is currently facing. She is not afraid to tackle difficult decisions and brings a creative approach to the table, which, combined with her experience, makes her the perfect person for the job. I am very happy with her appointment and wish her all the best. She will be able to count on the full support of the Board of Directors to fulfill her tasks.”

“I look forward to continuing the work I started as interim CEO. In the past few months, some key issues have been addressed, but it will take a lot more for Antwerp to return to a growing and flourishing diamond trade hub”, says Karen Rentmeesters. “Ensuring AWDC is an efficient, well-organized, and trusted partner for our diamond companies is a key challenge. In my new role as CEO, I am fully committed to achieving that goal, together with the Board and our teams. In addition, the global diamond industry faces geopolitical challenges and is in a worldwide crisis. As a representative body, it is crucial that we can guide our companies through these turbulent times and offer perspective for the future.”, Rentmeesters concludes.

Karen Rentmeesters is 45 years old, married, and has two children. She earned a master's degree in Communication Sciences at the University of Leuven in 2002. Throughout her career, she has led various teams and built an extensive network and in-depth knowledge of the diamond industry from mine to finger.