Leadership Handover Confirmed as NAJ and BATF Announce June AGMs

12 May 2026

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) and the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) have confirmed details of their forthcoming annual general meetings (AGMs), both to be held on the afternoon of 11 June 2026 at Warwick Castle.

At the NAJ AGM, current Chair Adam Jacobs will formally pass the role to incoming Chair Mehdi Saadian, who has served as Vice Chair since 2024. Mehdi is Director of the GIA London campus and a highly respected figure within the jewellery and valuation profession. He is an active member of both the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV) and the Academy of Experts, and has been a member of the NAJ National Committee since 2022. During this time, he has played a key role in supporting the simplification, standardisation and visualisation of the Association’s governance framework.

Reflecting on the transition, Adam Jacobs comments,

“Having worked closely with Mehdi in his role as Vice Chair, I am confident he will bring the same energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role of Chair. With his deep knowledge of, and affection for, the jewellery trade, I know he will work extremely well alongside the NAJ team and continue to make a positive contribution for members.”

At the meeting, former NAJ Chairs Heather Callaway and Gary Wroe will step down from NAJ’s National Committee but will remain active participants on the BATF board. They will be joined on the BATF board by Helen Dimmick, director at Ainsworth Jewellers.

The AGM will also see the election of Angela Evans, representing Designer Craftspeople; Rachel Morrish, representing Jewellers of the JQ; and Sammantha Machlachlan, representing Valuers for the NAJ National Committee.

Jacobs concludes,

“I would like to publicly thank both Heather Callaway and Gary Wroe, who step away from National Committee duties after years of dedicated service. Both have given their time and expertise tirelessly and selflessly to improve the Association. I would also like to welcome new committee members who will bring fresh perspectives and new experience to the board.”

 At the BATF AGM, current President Gert Schyberg will hand over responsibilities to incoming President John Henn, Managing Director of jewellery retailer T A Henn. John has served on the BATF Board since 2014, is a member of both the NAJ and IRV, and represents the UK through the NAJ’s membership of CIBJO.

Register for AGM

Members of the BATF and its federated trade associations are entitled to complimentary tickets to both meetings. Registration at Warwick Castle will open from 5.00pm on 11 June.

Benevolent Society Summer Dinner

The afternoon will conclude with a drinks reception, offering delegates the opportunity to network while enjoying medieval-themed entertainment. Highlights include a 30-minute fighting knight show and a roaming jester, scheduled to take place between the conclusion of the AGMs and the Benevolent Society Summer Dinner.

All are welcome to join The Benevolent Society’s dinner, which will bring the day to a close. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis at £85 + VAT and include a three-course meal, drinks and entertainment.

Book Benevolent Society Dinner

Source: National Association of Jewellers