Stephen Barnes has assumed ownership of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO), succeeding outgoing owner Jeff Roberts.
Roberts passed the torch at IJO’s semiannual conference in Palm Springs, California, the organization said Sunday. Barnes, who joined the IJO more than 25 years ago, has served as its president since 2023, and is also the owner of Barnes Jewelers in North Carolina. He has experience with business growth, financial strategy and transition management.
“Stephen has…played a vital role in our organization’s success,” said Roberts. “When I appointed him as president…, I was seeking fresh leadership to propel IJO into the future. Since then, he has demonstrated remarkable vision and dedication, making his transition to owner both natural and exciting. I have no doubt he will lead IJO to even greater heights.”
Since becoming president, Barnes has focused on modernizing the organization’s educational programs, expanding its teams and enhancing its next-generation initiatives. Moving ahead, he intends to forge strategic partnerships to aid independent jewelers.
Meanwhile, Roberts will step down after more than 50 years with the organization, where he started off recruiting members and later held roles as president, CEO and owner.
“IJO has been my life for more than five decades, and now is the perfect time to pass the torch to a leader I trust wholeheartedly,” Roberts stated. “The relationships I’ve built with our members are invaluable, and while I will certainly miss my role, I have complete confidence that [Barnes] will lead IJO with passion, integrity, and a visionary approach.”
Image: Stephen Barnes. (IJO)
