Merchandising Lead and Principal Consultant

Andrea Lucille Poole

Which country do you live in?
United States

When did you join Hill & Co.?
September 2021

How many years have you worked in the diamond, gemstone and jewelry industry?
25

Background and experience

I graduated from Rhode Island School of Design, with an MFA and am a graduate gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

Prior to managing several departments for one of the largest retail jewelry companies in the world, I spent 15 years running my sole proprietorship for which I designed & crafted my own fine jewelry line. My clients were both B2B and B2C clients and I attended trunk shows, wholesale and retail shows, amounting to over 500 shows in 15 years, while also running my retail store in Brooklyn, NY.

At James Allen I managed multiple teams as Operations Manager, Customer Success & Client Relations.

Having built up 25 years’ experience in the diamond, gemstone and jewelry industry, I joined Hill & Co. to advise manufacturers, retailers and designers on growth strategy, drawing upon my extensive knowledge.

Skills and specialisms

· Growth strategy development

· Team management and training

· SOP implementation

· Manufacturing processes

· Branding and merchandising

· Harnessing tech innovation

Personal Information

I love to travel, skydive, surf, sail, and ski; I am an avid art collector, I love home renovations & interior design projects, and I am a practicing chef in the kitchen. Enjoying time with my daughter, family, and friends keeps me busy!

Industry membership

I am committed to giving back to my community & the jewelry industry. I am Vice President of the Mentorship Committee for the Women's Jewelry Association. I also volunteer with Pure Earth and am the resident volunteer jewelry appraiser for a Hospice Store.

What do you appreciate most about being part of the Hill & Co. team?

Working with a team of individuals who are just as supportive and passionate as I am.

Not many people know this but…

I started my career as a bench jeweler.