The Diamond Development Initiative (DDI) is pleased to announce that Rory More O'Ferrall has joined our team as Honorary Vice Chairman. Retired from the De Beers Group of Companies in 2007, where he was Director of External Affairs, More O'Ferrall will be contributing to building DDI's corporate relations.

Artisanal and small scale diamond miners are a vital part of the diamond supply chain and as part of our mandate to bring together all stakeholders to address the development issues that confront the artisanal diamond mining sector, DDI works closely with the diamond and jewellery industries.

It is no longer enough to provide consumers with conflict free diamonds. Responsibly sourced diamonds and gold are the new industry standard and today's jewellers are dedicated to providing their consumers with ethical choices. When supported and guided, artisanal miners are capable of supplying ethically mined diamonds.

"We have a responsibility to preserve the integrity of our trade and to ensure the welfare of those who work in our business," said More O'Ferrall. "It makes solid business sense for the entire industry. It's important work and I'm excited to renew my involvement with DDI."

During his 36 years with De Beers, Rory MoreO'Ferrall contributed to important changes in the diamond industry. He advised the US Financial Crimes Enforcement Network on implementation of the Patriot Act in regard to the diamond industry and the US Senate on the drafting of the Clean Diamonds Act. MoreO'Ferrall was instrumental in establishing the World Diamond Council (WDC) and, as a director of the WDC, he was closely involved in the creation and development of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS). He was also a prime mover in the discussions that led to the creation of DDI and he served on the organization's first Board of Directors in 2006.

"We welcome Rory back to the DDI family and we are exceptionally pleased to have him and his expertise at the table," said DDI's Board of Directors Chair, Ian Smillie.

Presently, More O'Ferrall is a private consultant specializing in international and governmental relations, public-private partnerships, conflict prevention and resolution, and corporate social responsibility.