Appointment: Kate Madelin to step down as NAJ's Director of Education

NAJ will now be looking for a replacement to continue to drive forward the association’s industry-leading agenda, working with the full membership, the leadership team and staff.

Simon Johnson, NAJ Chairman said

“Since her appointment to NAG five years ago Kate has had a transformational impact on the Association.  During this time, she has led a forward-thinking and committed team of employees and volunteers, to deliver innovative training for the whole sector.

At the time of her appointment, Kate was tasked with taking the Association’s training in a new direction, providing fresh impetus and increasing its relevance and effectiveness. While there is more to accomplish, Kate feels the time is right for her to hand over the reins to someone new to take things even further. Clearly, we are extremely sorry to see Kate go, but we wish her well for the future.”

Simon Forrester, NAJ Chief Executive said

“Kate actually resigned late last year, but kindly agreed to stay on to not only allow me to start my job with NAJ, but also to help recruit her replacement – an offer I have been very pleased to accept. There is never a perfect time for this type of change, but Kate has worked with me to prepare us for the handover. The Association is, I believe, about to head in a new and exciting direction. We need someone to head up the Education team who can drive that change and who has the relevant experience to maintain the momentum that we, together, have built. We are advertising her role before Jewellery and Watch so as to maximise the opportunity to meet with potential candidates face to face – the role is now live on the website, click here to view it, or come to the NAJ stand (17U22-W23) to find out more.”

Kate said:

“It’s been an incredibly difficult decision for me, as this has been such a rewarding role. However, I’ve always said the mark of my leadership being a success was that I would leave NAJ on the best of terms and in a position to attract strong candidates to replace me. I feel we have achieved a great deal; NAJ has moved forward significantly - and I am immensely proud of that. "But now is the time for someone with fresh ideas to take the association to another level. I’d like to thank the staff team, NatCom, volunteers and wider membership for their support in helping me to change the association and the wider industry for the better, and I wish NAJ continued success in the years ahead.”

Simon Forrester summarised the news:

“Kate’s legacy leaves NAJ in an industry-leading position, along with a highly respected staff team and an excellent course repertoire; an attractive position as we seek out her replacement.  Whilst we work to recruit a highly-talented head for our education department, needless to say, we remain committed to working hard in the best interests of our Membership, and look forward to welcoming a worthy successor to Kate in the coming months.”