New chapter for Graham Broomfield as he steps into Managing Director role at Austen & Blake

Graham Broomfield is starting a new position as Managing Director at Austen & Blake. He was previously COO at Neve Jewels Group, the owner of Austen & Blake.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: "Today marks a special moment in my journey at Neve Jewels Group. After almost five years as COO, I’m honoured to step into the role of Managing Director at Austen & Blake, a brand I care deeply about, and one I’m proud to help shape as we move into a new chapter."

"From our early beginnings to a global footprint, it has been an incredible journey working across all three brands, building teams, opening new regions, strengthening customer experience, and laying the foundations for the future. But now it’s time to lead from the front, with focus, belief, and an ambition to take Austen & Blake to new heights."

He added: "I want to express my sincere thanks to Priyaj Jain, who steps into the role of Group CEO and Chairman. Your trust and belief over the years have meant more than you know."

"A huge congratulations also to Anuj Madhani and Abhishek Jain, and to the entire Neve Jewels family, the people who show up every day and make all of this possible. Nothing we’ve achieved (and everything we’re about to achieve next) happens without our teams."

"And a big congratulations to Matthew Gratze on his appointment as Managing Director of Diamonds Factory an exciting moment for the group and a testament to the leadership now shaping each brand.  Austen & Blake has an extraordinary future ahead. I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead it, to serve our teams and customers, and to continue building something truly special. Here’s to the next chapter focused, ambitious, and ready."

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

Broomfield is part of the judging panel for the first edition of its AI in Retail Awards, sponsored by VenHub Global, 3D Cloud and EdTech Innovation Hub.

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 29th January. This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.