Judging Panel 2024
John Mulligan
Director of Market Relations & Climate Change Lead, World Gold Council (WGC)
John Mulligan is Director of Market Relations & Climate Change Lead at the World Gold Council (WGC), leading its climate change and nature research programmes and associated engagement with investors, policy makers and stakeholder organisations. Additionally, he contributes to the organisation’s wider insight and communications outputs to improve understanding of the whole gold supply chain, and the integration of ESG and sustainability considerations into strategic market perspectives. Mulligan also now serves as President of the Sustainable Development Commission of CIBJO (the World Jewellery Confederation), chairs the climate programme of the Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 (WJI2030) and is the main convenor of the industry group backing the Gold Industry Declaration of Responsibility & Sustainability Principles. He joined the WGC in early 2005 and has degrees from the University of Sussex and Birkbeck College, University of London.
Nirupa Bhatt
Business Leadership Coach & Strategic Adviser
Nirupa Bhatt, a returning judge of JWA, has over 35 years of experience in the jewellery and gemstone industry. She spent 20 years leading Rio Tinto Diamonds India office before joining GIA as Managing Director in 2008. During her tenure, she was entrusted with establishing GIA’s grading and education facilities in India and the Middle East. Bhatt also founded the India chapter of the Women’s Jewellery Association (WJA). Recognised for her contribution to the Indian gemstone and jewellery industry and in-depth understanding of the global diamond value chain, she is currently an independent consultant and business and leadership coach.
“Responsible businesses adopt and implement processes that minimise adverse impacts on the environment, society and the economy. There are several examples of businesses in the gem and jewellery industry value chain that have embraced sustainable business practices and developed a culture of environmental preservation and protection,” said Bhatt. “I am pleased to have the opportunity to serve on the judging panel where I can identify and encourage participants that showcase and lead the way in sustainability to further drive industry-wide change. I congratulate the JWA team for their continued efforts in promoting and advocating for the adoption of best practices in the industry.”
Hayley A. Henning
Coloured Gemstone Business Strategist
Hayley A. Henning is the former Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Greenland Ruby, a ruby and pink sapphire mining operation at Aappaluttoq in southwest Greenland. Henning introduced these recently discovered gems as a new and responsible source of rubies from the oldest deposit on earth. In 2018, she founded the Pink Polar Bear Foundation, a Greenland Ruby CSR initiative. Proceeds from the Foundation go toward international polar research in all disciplines, protecting the inhabitants (animal and human) of Greenland who are affected by climate change and accompanying cultural changes. She also made Greenland Ruby the first coloured gemstone mining member of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). Previously, Henning served as Executive Director of the Tanzanite Foundation at TanzaniteOne Mining Ltd. Her community initiatives included supporting various schools, orphanages and women’s empowerment projects. Henning’s work and efforts were recognised by the United Nations and CIBJO. She is also the co-author, with jewellery journalist Didier Brodbeck, of “Tanzanite: Born from Lightning.”
“I’m inspired by companies that go above and beyond producing magnificent jewels, to make a difference in the communities that surround mining areas and supply chain operations. They need to be awarded and celebrated for their activities. I can’t wait to see, document and share these successes with one another, and ultimately the consumer, who, more than ever, not only wants to adorn themselves in luxurious jewels, but are more and more interested in knowing exactly how gems and metals are sourced, and the impact this is making in the communities at origin. I’m honoured to be a part of this process,” Henning said.
Andrew Lau
Director of ESG Advisory, Colliers Asia
Andrew Lau has a track record of driving ESG and Sustainability leadership for multinational companies in the Asia-Pacific region for over 20 years. As Director of ESG Advisory at Colliers Asia, he covers a wide range of markets, including Greater China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia. Notably, Lau’s delivered projects have resulted in significant energy savings, exceeding 60 GWh of electricity to date. An engineer by training, he holds a Master of Science in Intelligent Building Technologies and Management from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, as well as a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toronto. He is a Chartered Engineer, a Member of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, Registered Energy Assessor and LEED (EBOM) and WELL Accredited Professional, among others.
“I am privileged to serve as a judge in this competition. I eagerly anticipate acknowledging pioneers in environmental preservation, social inclusivity, innovative manufacturing, community involvement and sustainable leadership,” Lau said. “The opportunity to evaluate endeavours that safeguard ecosystems, foster equality, propel technological progress, involve communities and surpass conventional ESG practices is truly inspiring. I am thrilled to lend my expertise and commemorate transformative initiatives that pave the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future.”
Jan Porter
Head of Sustainability, Meiyume
Having over 10 years of experience in legal compliance and business strategy across various industries in Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy and Consumer Goods, Jan Porter has led the Meiyume Sustainability department since 2019. In Meiyume, he oversees the sustainability requirements of its operations in the manufacture and trade of its plastic, metals, glass, textile and formulations products across Asia, Europe and the Americas. This includes creating policies and driving actions related to decarbonisation, responsible water use, adoption of sustainable materials, product end-of-life, supply chain transparency, socially responsible supply chains and compliance with emerging legislation.
“Sustainability is a quickly evolving field with innovations being developed by all actors along the value chains across multiple industries. Although these innovations originate from different backgrounds, they converge towards common goals that serve to improve the planet and society. I am excited to participate in judging the various initiatives submitted for the Sustainability Awards 2024 by JWA as this gives us an opportunity to recognise those working on projects for the collective good,” Porter said.
