Gem and Jewel discovers two rare diamonds

Gary Cross, new Technical Director, Gem & Jewel

Natasha Maroun,new Managing Director, Gem & Jewel

The South African insurance landscape is constantly changing and Gem & Jewel is no exception. Underwriting leaders for retail jewellery businesses, they recently announced Natasha Maroun has stepped into the role of Managing Director, with Gary Cross coming on board as the new Technical Director.

The appointments of Maroun and Cross will strengthen the market position of Gem and Jewel and the expertise they offer. Since her appointment, Maroun’s focus is on improving the brand within the marketplace, increasing efficiency and building on the already exceptional service its brokers have become accustomed too.

“Brokers within the jewellery industry have come to know Gem and Jewel as one of the leaders within the industry and we hope that this new era we are stepping into builds on this reputation,” says Maroun.

With over 17 years experience within the insurance sector, Maroun brings with her a wealth of experience. Having started her career as a broker, Maroun eventually found herself working at the Hannover Reinsurance Group. Following this, Maroun worked as the legal consultant for Lireas Holdings – the strategic investment arm of the Hannover Re Group. Her work at Lireas Holdings saw her becoming incredibly involved in managing the investment portfolio, with a specific focus on niche underwriting. This experience has assisted Maroun in being able to bring to Gem and Jewel skill and understanding that will help build on the already strong brand.

Taking over as the new Technical Director for Gem and Jewel, Gary Cross brings with him over 36 years experience. Cross spent 5 years as a broker for Lloyd’s Jewellers Block insurance. He subsequently spent thirteen years in the jewellery trade; first as a regional manager for a retail chain and then nine years as a partner in a retail jewellery store. His previous position at SA Eagle/Zurich, which he held for nine years, was as a contractor and assisting in the creation of a product specifically designed for the jewellery trade, thereafter assuming responsibility for the marketing, underwriting, claims and maintenance of the collectibles policy.

A move for the better

In a move to strengthen their brand presence within the marketplace, Gem and Jewel are moving office as of 1 December this year. The move will mean the closure of the Cape Town offices; centralising the resources and expertise in Johannesburg - their new offices are located in the La Rocca Office Park on Main Road, Bryanston.

With a clear vision and business focus, Maroun looks forward to continuing to grow and entrench Gem and Jewel’s hold on the jewellery insurance market. The company celebrated its 10^th anniversary this year and with all the changes the shareholders and staff are looking forward to the journey of growth ahead.