NAJ appoints Mehdi Saadian as new chair

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has announced the appointment of Mehdi Saadian as chair, effective 11 June 2026. 

Saadian, who has served as vice chair since 2024, is a member of the Institute of Registered Valuers and the Academy of Experts. 

He has sat on the NAJ national committee for two years, focusing on the association’s governance framework.

Saadian, who is also the director of the GIA London campus, will succeed Adam Jacobs during the annual general meeting of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) at Warwick Castle next month.

At the BATF meeting, John Henn, managing director of T A Henn, will succeed Gert Schyberg as president. 

Henn has been a board member since 2014 and represents the UK within the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO).

The NAJ national committee will also see several personnel changes. Former chairs Heather Callaway and Gary Wroe are to step down from the committee but will remain on the BATF board. 

They will be joined by Helen Dimmick, director of Ainsworth Jewellers. Additionally, Angela Evans, Rachel Morrish, and Sammantha Machlachlan have been elected to the committee to represent designers, regional jewellers, and valuers.

The meetings will conclude with a drinks reception and the Benevolent Society summer dinner. The event, which includes medieval-themed entertainment, is open to all members and federated trade associations.

Jacobs said: “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.

“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.”