Story Highlight
– David Doyle, respected figure in UK jewellery trade, passed away.
– Founded wholesale business, Jewellery Brokers, in 1986.
– Significant roles included NAJ chairman and president for years.
– Raised £204,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital in charity events.
– Remembered for his charm, dedication, and industry influence.
Full Story
David Doyle, a prominent figure in the UK jewellery sector, has passed away. He was born in the Midlands in 1962 and received his education at Repton School, although his time there was brief due to his expulsion for disruptive behaviour.
From an early age, David exhibited a lively spirit, which he carried into his professional life, significantly impacting the brands and charities he worked with. His journey in the jewellery industry began at the age of 17 when he took a part-time job in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, marking the start of a lifelong passion.
He initially ventured outside the jewellery trade, undertaking sales positions at major firms such as Cadbury Schweppes and Avon. However, at 24, he returned to the sector, taking on roles as a manufacturers’ agent. His success in these positions culminated in the establishment of his own wholesale business, Jewellery Brokers, in Birmingham in 1986.
Over the years, Doyle gained recognition not only for his entrepreneurial success but also for his dedication to the jewellery trade’s integrity. He served in various voluntary roles to elevate the industry, notably for over twenty years with the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ). He became a member of the National Committee of the British Jewellers’ Association in 1996, progressively increasing his contributions. By 2004, he had ascended to the position of chairman of the NAJ, eventually becoming its president in 2018, a role he filled for five years.
In addition to his work with the NAJ, Doyle had many other noteworthy positions. He was a non-executive director with The British Jewellery Giftware & Finishing Federation from 1999 to 2016, a judge at the UK Jewellery Awards from 2000 to 2003, a representative on the West Midlands Regional Council for the Confederation of British Industry from 2007 to 2011, president of the British Allied Trade Federation from 2008 to 2009, and Trade Warden of the Birmingham Assay Office from 2010 to 2019.
One of his proudest accomplishments in his later years was with the British Jewellery & Giftware Federation Benevolent Society, particularly his role as the organiser of fundraising events. After becoming vice chair in 2008 at a time when fundraising was struggling, he revitalised these events. The 2024 Benevolent Ball, celebrating the Society’s centenary, successfully raised £28,000 for individuals in the jewellery industry facing health or financial challenges, as well as adult learners aiming to further their skills.
Although health issues prompted him to step back from his official role with the Benevolent Society in 2022, he continued to support its initiatives. In his final years, Doyle also initiated his own fundraising efforts for the cancer department at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, organising charity balls in 2024 and 2025 which collectively raised £204,000 for the hospital.
Remembered for his charisma, wit, and generosity, colleagues and friends also admired his unwavering commitment to fundraising for noble causes. His contributions were recognised with the NAJ Chairs Award in 2022 and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 UK Jewellery Awards.
Gary Williams, the president of the NAJ, remarked, “David was an amazing, one-in-a-million character, and in the many roles he undertook, including helping create the NAJ, had an incredibly positive influence on the jewellery trade he loved.” Adam Jacobs, NAJ chair, emphasised Doyle’s monumental impact on the industry, crediting him for fostering a more robust sector through his voluntary spirit and helping to raise significant funds for charitable causes.
Gary Wroe, a former president of the NAJ and a close friend, added, “David’s dedication, generosity, and vision touched us all. He strengthened the industry, supported countless causes, and left a legacy that will inspire for years to come.”
Doyle succumbed to cancer on 8 February, after battling the illness for over four years. He is survived by his loving family, including his wife, Jan, and their children, Sophie and Dan. Details regarding his funeral and donation arrangements will be provided in due course.
Members of the jewellery trade are encouraged to share their condolences through a dedicated link.
