Antwerp-based gemological institution, the International Gemological Institute (IGI), is undergoing a leadership transition as its global CEO, Roland Lorie, prepares to step down after an illustrious tenure spanning nearly five decades. The organization has officially announced that Tehmasp Printer will assume the position of CEO, effective October 1, as declared on Monday.
This pivotal change in leadership comes on the heels of the recent acquisition of the International Gemological Institute by private equity firm Blackstone in May. The institute, founded by the Lorie family in 1975, was entrusted to Blackstone, signifying a significant evolution in the institution’s ownership and strategic direction.
Tehmasp Printer is an individual well-versed in the inner workings of IGI, having served within its ranks for an impressive 24 years. His most recent role was that of managing director of IGI India, a position in which he played a pivotal role in introducing and implementing IGI’s meticulous grading and certification standards to India’s thriving gemstone and jewelry sectors. This crucial step significantly enhanced the reputation and credibility of the organization within the Indian market.
Roland Lorie, the outgoing CEO, expressed his confidence in the selection of Tehmasp Printer as his successor, emphasizing Printer’s extensive two-decade-long association with IGI. Lorie commended Printer’s steadfast commitment to excellence and innovation, qualities that he believes will drive IGI’s continued growth and evolution as it embarks on a new phase. Lorie noted, “I feel it’s the perfect time to pass on the baton to new leadership.”
In response to his appointment, Tehmasp Printer conveyed his sense of honor in assuming this new role. He emphasized his eagerness to collaborate closely with IGI’s management team and Blackstone to further advance the institute’s global presence and technological capabilities. Acknowledging the legacy left by Roland Lorie and the Lorie family, Printer underscored the lasting impact they’ve had on IGI’s trajectory and reputation.
As the chapter turns to a new era under the leadership of Tehmasp Printer, the international gemological community will be closely watching how IGI, with its renewed vision, continues to play a crucial role in the gemstone and jewelry industries worldwide.
