Patel joined the GIA in 2015 as chief information officer and was elevated to chief operating officer two years later. In his current role, he is responsible for operational strategy, planning, developing, and implementing innovative solutions.
Patel will take over the role on 4 August and board chair Lisa Locklear said the new leader was well-suited to lead the organisation.
“Patel’s outstanding experience, character and understanding of the industry and the institute are exceptionally well-suited to build upon GIA’s nearly 100 years of service to the industry and consumers, leading GIA to even greater successes,” she said.
Patel replaces outgoing president and CEO Susan Jacques, who is retiring after 12 years in the post. Jacques will remain with the GIA as a strategic advisor until the end of the year.
Locklear said that Jacques’ tenure has left the GIA well-positioned to navigate the opportunities and challenges of the future.
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