The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) has announced that Jason Allum, director of Allum & Sidaway, will become chairman of the group in August 2026 when Michael Aldridge of Neil & Barker steps down.

Jason returned to the CMJ Board of Directors in April 2025, having previously served on the Board for eight years from 2013 to 2021. Allum & Sidaway is a founding member of the CMJ; it is a family business that was founded in 1942 and has six stores across the south and southwest of England.

Current CMJ chairman Michael Aldridge said: “After nine years serving as chairman of the Company of Master Jewellers, I will be stepping down in August as my term of office comes to an end.

“It has been an immense privilege to lead such a respected organisation and to work alongside an exceptional board, executive team and membership. Throughout my tenure, we have strengthened strategic partnerships, supported our independent jewellers through a period of significant industry change, and continued to uphold the values that define our group.

“I am particularly pleased to welcome our new managing director Patrick Turner and have every confidence that his leadership will further build on our strong foundations and serve our members well.

“I am proud of all that we have achieved together and remain highly optimistic about the organisation’s future. I am delighted that Jason Allum will be stepping into the role of Chairman, and I will be working closely with him to ensure a seamless transition. I wish Jason every success and know that the Company of Master Jewellers is in very safe hands.”

Jason added: “The CMJ is a very special organisation that I am proud to be part of. It is a huge honour to have been asked back onto the board of directors and to fill the position of Chairman in August 2026. Michael Aldridge has conducted his chairmanship with the utmost dedication to the CMJ’s success. I am committed to building on our core values and contributing to the growth of both our retailers’ and suppliers’ businesses. I very much look forward to working alongside my fellow directors and our MD Patrick Turner in guiding the CMJ forward and into a very bright future.”

The CMJ is run by a democratically elected Board of members, each one a highly esteemed member of the jewellery industry with years of experience and passion. They ensure that the group’s strategy and vision keep the interests of independent jewellery retail at its heart, so CMJ members can be confident that the business is always focused on their interests and the growth of their individual businesses.

The CMJ is the largest specialist jewellery and watch buying group in the UK and Ireland. Click here to find out more.