Jewelers of America (JA), the national trade association for businesses serving the fine jewelry marketplace, has elected Bill Farmer Jr., as JA's new Board Chairman.

 

A partner in Farmer's Jewelry in Lexington, KY, he succeeds Georgie Gleim, President of Gleim the Jeweler. Farmer was elected in July at JA's Board meeting where new directors were also elected.

 

"Bill's professionalism and passion for the jewelry industry has contributed greatly to Jewelers of America's mission for nearly a decade," said JA President and CEO David J. Bonaparte. "We are privileged to have him lead our Board of Directors during his term as Jewelers of America Board Chairman."

 

Farmer has served for eight years on JA's Board of Directors. During that time, he helped raise awareness of Jewelers of America's Political Action Committee, serving on and chairing the JAPAC Board. Bill served two terms as President of the Kentucky Jewelers Association and was Board Chair of the American Gem Society from 2002-2004.

 

"My work as a Jewelers of America Board Director and leading the JAPAC Board has given me a deep respect for Jewelers of America and the important work it does for the industry," said Farmer. "I look forward to continuing my work with the Board of Directors and Jewelers of America staff to maintain consumer confidence in the fine jewelry marketplace."