Can Luxury Lead the Way? Iris Van der Veken on Building a Legacy of Purpose, Responsibility, and Transparency

What if the future of luxury isn’t about exclusivity—but radical inclusivity?

In this powerful episode of Responsible Luxury, host Lauren Petrovic sits down with Iris Van der Veken, Executive Director of the Watches & Jewellery Initiative 2030, for a bold and timely conversation on redefining what leadership looks like in today’s global luxury landscape.

Together, Lauren and Iris explore:

• Why trust is now the defining currency for business.
• The evolution of leadership from hierarchy to inclusivity.
• How women’s empowerment and climate action are deeply interconnected.
• The role of luxury brands in setting standards for transparency, traceability, and sustainability.
• The importance of collaboration, mentorship, and building ecosystems where creativity and accountability thrive.
• Collaboration across industries is necessary for progress.

Whether you’re a CEO, creative entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this conversation offers both practical insights on what it means to create a lasting legacy.

Links & Resources Mentioned

• Watches & Jewelry Initiative 2030
• UN Women – Women’s Empowerment Principles
• UN Global Compact

Follow Iris Van der Veken on LinkedIn for updates on her work.

Connect with Responsible Luxury

• Follow Lauren Petrovic on LinkedIn
• Follow Responsible Luxury on Instagram
• Explore Laurenti New York
• Stay tuned for upcoming events during Climate Week NYC 2025

Chapters

[00:00] Introduction and Background

[03:11] Leadership Evolution and Principles

[12:03] Social Impact and Early Influences

[16:30] Transition to the Diamond Industry

[21:23] Driving Change in the Industry

[27:32] Children's Rights and Global Compact

[31:34] Collaboration with UN Women

[38:46] Watches and Jewelry Initiative 2030

[40:42] The Importance of Nature in Business Resilience

[43:38] Governance and Multi-Stakeholder Engagement

[46:39] Collaboration Over Competition

[51:54] Cultural Perspectives on Sustainability

[56:54] The Interconnection of Climate and Gender

[01:00:53] The Future of Responsible Luxury

[01:05:56] Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

[01:08:21] Legacy and Impact in the Industry