De Beers Group Announces Executive Committee Changes as COO Retires

De Beers Group has announced a series of leadership changes within its Executive Committee as the company prepares for the retirement of Chief Operating Officer (COO) Burger Greeff at the end of 2025. After three decades of service, Greeff’s departure marks a significant transition for the diamond producer, which continues to refine its operational strategy under CEO Al Cook. The move underscores De Beers’ ongoing focus on leadership continuity and strategic transformation during a period of structural and market evolution for the global diamond industry.

Effective 1 December 2025, Kevin Smith, currently Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs & Strategy, will assume the position of Interim COO. With nearly 30 years of experience at both De Beers and Anglo American, Smith has played a pivotal role in shaping the group’s Upstream Origins strategy, which focuses on strengthening De Beers’ mining operations and supply chain efficiency. He also led the company’s organizational redesign program, positioning him as a seasoned leader well-equipped to maintain operational stability and performance during this transition period.

At the same time, Eirik Waerness, who joined De Beers in September 2025 from Norwegian energy company Equinor, will step into the role of Acting Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs & Strategy. As De Beers’ Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, Waerness has been instrumental in driving data-led decision-making and market analysis. In his new capacity, he will oversee Global Communications, Government Affairs, Strategy & Business Development, and Market and Price Analysis, reinforcing De Beers’ focus on transparency, policy engagement, and market intelligence.

Greeff, who joined De Beers in 1993, leaves behind an extensive legacy across technical innovation, marine operations, and sustainability leadership. His contributions have shaped the company’s modernization efforts and environmental stewardship, especially through advancements in offshore mining technology and responsible sourcing initiatives. CEO Al Cook commended Greeff for his “integrity, foresight, and legacy of excellence,” expressing confidence that both Smith and Waerness will guide the organization through its next chapter of transformation.

These leadership adjustments reflect De Beers’ broader ambition to strengthen its strategic resilience, operational discipline, and partnership growth, particularly across its African mining ventures. As the diamond industry faces shifting consumer trends, market volatility, and sustainability challenges, De Beers’ refreshed executive structure positions it to adapt effectively and maintain its long-standing reputation as a global industry leader.

Mini-Glossary

• Upstream Origins strategy: De Beers’ initiative focused on enhancing efficiency and traceability within its mining and production operations.
• Executive Committee: The top management group responsible for strategic decision-making within a corporation.
• Operational resilience: The ability of an organization to maintain core functions during disruptions or changes.
• Responsible sourcing: The ethical procurement of materials to ensure environmental and social sustainability.
• Market intelligence: The process of gathering and analyzing data to understand industry trends and inform business strategies.

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