Eager to Build

A TOP JEWELRY BRAND’S NEW LEADER REVEALS HIS APPRECIATION OF ITS HERITAGE—AND ZEAL FOR ITS FUTURE. By Rita Guarna

Last November, Evan Yurman was promoted to president of David Yurman Enterprises LLC, the jewelry design brand founded by his parents, David and Sybil, more than half a century ago. The new president, now 40, has two decades of experience with the company, having served as chief creative officer and led its men’s, wedding, high and fine jewelry businesses. Evan also supervised the redesign of the flagship store on New York City’s 57th Street. In a brief recent chat, ACCENT inquired about his thoughts, on- and off-duty.

You’ve said that your vision for the business is “to build and sustain.” Tell us how you see the company evolving as you embrace your new role as president.

In 2022 and beyond, we are looking to continue to evolve our brand by honoring our heritage— craftsmanship, product, design and innovation— while also seeking to deepen our company’s roots in the visual arts and creative communities. Also, as with any business that hopes to sustain itself in growth, we must continue to focus on the employee experience and journey.

What are you proudest of, professionally and personally?

Growing up within the company has given me an appreciation for the incredible work that has gone into building it. My parents started this brand more than 50 years ago, and in many ways they were trailblazers in the industry. I’m excited to build on their legacy, and to continue to evolve and shape the future of the brand and what it stands for. I am most proud of our men’s business, which I created in 2005. A creative outlet for me, it has also been a driving force in our growth.

Tell us something that people would be surprised to learn about you.

I love to cook! It brings me great joy to be able to share this with friends and family. I love to build on my menu when I travel, taking great inspiration from the Far East and different regions of Europe, both coastal and inland. I also enjoy meeting the people who grow and care for ingredients with the same care as I do for my designs and products.

You’re paving your own way in the family business. What are your thoughts about one or more of your children following in your footsteps?

I love the idea of my children joining the business. My oldest daughter, Cody, has already designed a few collections, and I couldn’t be prouder of her.