Having had an interest in the family jewellery business from a young age, Phil started in the jewellery trade in 1987, learning the trade and gaining qualifications with the then CMJ member Salloways in Lichfield.

Having spent three years there, Phil returned home in 1990 where he became the fifth generation to work at Ainsworth Jewellers. Upon his uncle's retirement, Phil took over as a director in 1995. In 2020 he was joined by his wife Helen Dimmick and together they, (after his father retired,) are looking to write the next chapter in the now 156-year-old business.

Craig joined Ntinga in 2012, bringing his background in high-end women's retail and financial recruitment. Initially hired to support Howard, his strong sales acumen and amiable personality have since established him as a remarkable salesperson and now a director and co-owner of the company. With a diploma in diamond grading and ample experience in the field, he has successfully cultivated a loyal customer base, consistently earning positive feedback from everyone he interacts with.

Jo is the owner of Hill & Hill The Jewellers in Altrincham, and the creative force behind the business. Jo is respected throughout the UK as one of the most innovative and creative people in the jewellery industry. She has won awards for her outstanding services to jewellery, having previously owned a chain of stores nationwide, before establishing herself as a jewellery consultant. Jo was described by many as the “Mary Portas of the Jewellery world,” having helped turn around the fortunes of dozens of big name jewellery businesses.

Kevan is currently sales director at employee-owned British fine jewellery manufacturer Hockley Mint and sister business Merrell Casting. With over 30 years’ experience in the jewellery sector, Kevan is responsible for the sales strategies for the Hockley Mint and Merrell Casting teams. He also works closely with the company’s managing director Gary Wroe across a range of disciplines, including retail sales, staff training, marketing, product development and brand strategy.

Belinda Morris is the long reigning editor of The Jeweller magazine, which is published by the National Association of Jewellers. She began her career (many decades ago!) as a fashion writer and stylist for consumer as well as trade magazines, and newspapers (such as the Independent and Financial Times), before turning her attention to jewellery and watches.

Jack Murphy Jewellers was founded in Newry, Northern Ireland, in 1972 by Gemma’s father and business partner Jack.

The business has won numerous awards including Store Design of the Year at the UK Jewellery Awards 2021 and Best Customer Service at the Greater Newry Area Business Awards 2021, where Gemma also received the Best Businesswoman accolade.

Rachael joined Curteis Ltd in 1997, beginning her journey linking chains and working at the bench, where she developed a genuine appreciation for jewellery craftsmanship. She later moved into sales before taking on her current role as marketing manager, giving her a broad understanding of the industry from creation through to customer.

Alongside her marketing role, she contributes to the product review and selection team. This varied background has shaped a strong commitment to creativity, innovation, and commercial success. Rachael is delighted to be part of the judging panel for the inaugural CMJ Awards and looks forward to celebrating talent across the jewellery industry.

With over 25 years of experience in the jewellery industry, Mark has grown a small independent business into a nationally recognised, multi award-winning brand. What began as a passion for craftsmanship and design has evolved into an internationally respected enterprise, celebrated in over 100 countries for its quality, innovation, and excellence.

Throughout a career spanning more than two decades, Mark has remained committed to blending traditional jewellery-making values with modern business vision.

Today, Mark continues to lead with creativity, integrity, and an unwavering focus on customer experience, proving that a business built from humble beginnings can achieve success through passion, perseverance, and purpose.