Iris Van der Veken

Iris Van der Veken is the Executive Director and Secretary General of the Watch and Jewellery Initiative 2030, and a Terras Tuscany and Terras New York attendee.
Founded by Kering and Cartier and delegated by Richemont, the Initiative is a multi-stakeholder action platform accelerating climate resilience, preserving nature and biodiversity, and fostering inclusiveness across the global watch and jewellery industry.

With more than 20 years of global experience spanning technology, diamonds, jewellery, fashion, and government, Iris has a background in law, public affairs, and international relations. She has worked on the ground across Africa, Armenia, China, India, Thailand, and Sri Lanka on the implementation of responsible business standards, pioneered impact projects, and spearheaded ESG reporting for the diamond industry.

Iris initiated and chaired the UN Global Compact Network Belgium and was honoured by the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for her leadership in promoting corporate social responsibility with a focus on human rights and the role of business. She has shaped leading strategic partnerships including with UN Women and the Global Compact, and has been a longstanding ambassador for the gender agenda in the jewellery industry.

Iris has recently been appointed as a member of the 100 Women @Davos Inclusive Leadership Council. She has been an active volunteer for the Special Olympics for over 20 years and ran the New York Marathon for UNICEF.

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