Sam Willoughby to step down after revitalised IJL 2017
LONDON, August 12, 2017 – International Jewellery London (IJL), the UK’s leading jewellery trade event, will bid farewell to Event Director Sam Willoughby in October, after eight years at the helm and more than 13 years working for Reed Exhibitions.
Willoughby and her team have developed many unique and market-leading features at IJL, including the VIP Diamond Club programme and an innovative 365-day strategy across content marketing, social media and industry support.
At this year’s show, as well as over 500 jewellery exhibitors of which 150 are new, there is a revitalised seminar programme featuring brand new learning areas such as The Academy, Digifest and Skills Lab.
IJL 2017 takes place at Olympia from September 3-5. Willoughby, who will remain throughout the show, said, “This year we are delighted to deliver the ground-breaking new Retail Experience and Jewellery LIVE! areas, a completely revamped seminar programme, a fantastic Trends Catwalk and a new roster of KickStarters and Bright Young Gems.
We look forward to welcoming our returning exhibitors, meeting new exhibitors and seeing all our visitors, with their inspiring dedication and passion for the show.”
On her departure, Willoughby adds: ‘Making the decision to step down from IJL was incredibly difficult. I love the industry’s sense of community and mutual support as well as my talented and hard-working team who will continue to take IJL to even greater heights, working with the jewellery industry to promote innovation and drive growth for all our customers.”
Lifestyle Portfolio Director, Lucy Gillam says, “Sam and her team have introduced many exciting changes for IJL 2017, marking the event as the number one destination of its kind in the UK. IJL is proud to offer unique support to the jewellery industry, as demonstrated by our #withyou campaign this year. I know that IJL’s forward-thinking and innovative team will maintain the show’s quality and integrity.
I would like to thank Sam for all her contributions and wish her the best for the future. I look forward to working with the IJL team to deliver more exciting innovations in 2018 and beyond.”
Willoughby’s replacement will be announced in due course.
