Sriram “Ram” Natarajan has become senior vice president of laboratory operations at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

Natarajan, who began in his role earlier this month, has been managing director of GIA India since 2020, the GIA said last week. While in that position, he was responsible for education and laboratory activities in India. In his new capacity, he will lead and establish the vision and direction of GIA laboratory operations, including diamond grading and jewelry services, the institute explained.

“Ram is a dynamic leader closely attuned to GIA’s mission and the needs of our laboratory clients,” said CEO Pritesh Patel. “As we continue to introduce new technologies and processes to advance efficiency, and develop new laboratory products and services, his expertise, insight and experience will be invaluable.”

Natarajan joined the GIA in 2017 as vice president of laboratory operations in India. He will now work from the organization’s Carlsbad, California, headquarters, and will report to Patel.

The GIA expects to announce a new managing director for GIA India in the fourth quarter, it added.

Image: Sriram Natarajan. (Gemological Institute of America)

Courtesy : Rapaport