Van Cleef & Arpels Atelier Director

About Van Cleef & Arpels

Van Cleef & Arpels is a haute-joaillerie maison renowned for artisanal excellence, refined design and exceptional gem-setting. As part of the Richemont group, the maison combines centuries-old savoir‑faire with rigorous quality standards and discreet luxury, sustaining ateliers where master craftsmen produce bespoke and limited-edition high‑jewelry pieces.

Role & Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate all workshop operations in Lyon, ensuring delivery of production targets while preserving haute‑joaillerie standards.
• Manage, mentor and develop a multidisciplinary team of master craftsmen (goldsmiths, setters, engravers, polishers), including recruitment and performance management.
• Oversee technical execution from prototypes to finished items: review technical drawings, validate production processes and approve workmanship at key stages.
• Define production scheduling and capacity planning in collaboration with design, quality control and supply‑chain teams to meet client and wholesale commitments.
• Implement and maintain rigorous quality-control protocols and finishing standards specific to high‑jewelry.
• Drive continuous improvement in workshop methods, craftsmanship techniques and safety practices while safeguarding traditional techniques and materials.
• Control workshop costs and material usage; prepare operational reports and contribute to budgeting and capital equipment decisions.
• Act as the primary liaison between design, product development and external suppliers for complex technical requests and bespoke commissions.

Qualifications

• Proven record of leadership in a high‑jewelry or fine‑jewelry atelier, with demonstrable results in team management and delivery of complex pieces.
• Deep technical mastery of haute‑joaillerie techniques (goldsmithing, stone setting, pavé, engraving, soldering, finishing) and strong material knowledge.
• Experience establishing and enforcing exacting quality standards and production workflows for luxury jewellery.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and translate design intent into manufacturable processes.
• Strong organisational skills with capacity to manage multiple bespoke and production priorities simultaneously.

Skills

Experience

Extensive experience in jewellery production environments, typically 7–10 years in haute‑joaillerie or fine‑jewellery workshops with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role overseeing multidisciplinary craft teams and production delivery.

Education

Vocational or technical qualification in jewelry-making, metalsmithing or a related craft (CAP/BEP, diploma or equivalent); advanced training in jewelry techniques or management is an advantage.

Workplace

Culture

The maison cultivates a workshop culture that values meticulous craftsmanship, intergenerational skill transfer and discretion. Teams operate within a tradition-rich environment where innovation is balanced with respect for artisanal techniques and uncompromising quality.

About Cerulean

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