The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) has officially appointed Jason Allum as its new chairman as of its AGM on Sunday 23 August 2026.
This comes as Michael Aldridge’s term of office came to an end after nine years serving as chairman.
Jason, who is director of Allum & Sidaway, 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.
Following his appointment, Jason said: “I would like to thank Michael Aldridge for everything he has done as chairman. Michael has given so much to this role; without doubt, he leaves the CMJ in a stronger and better position today than when he started, and I would like to thank him for his incredible contribution.
“The jewellery industry has experienced enormous change in recent years. In an environment like this, I believe being part of the CMJ family has never been more important. The CMJ does not take away your identity as an individual business – quite the opposite. It gives you a community around you that can help you grow, solve problems, share ideas and ultimately become better.
“As I step into the role of chairman, my commitment to all members is to do everything I can to help their businesses grow, working alongside our dedicated and passionate fellow directors. I would also like to thank our fantastic managing director, Patrick Turner, and the hard-working and dedicated CMJ Head Office team who are all incredibly committed to making our members’ lives easier.”
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.
