Stephen Barnes Takes Over Ownership of IJO

By Rob Bates | March 06, 2025

Stephen Barnes, president of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) since August 2023, is now owner of the Southport, Conn.–based group.

He takes over from Jeff Roberts—the son of IJO founder Bill Roberts—who became owner in 2008.

Barnes has been involved in jewelry retailing for more than 35 years, including managing his family business and serving as a consultant for the Edge Retail Academy.

In a statement, he said he will continue to focus on modernizing IJO’s educational programs, technology resources, and marketing tools. Barnes also plans for IJO to forge strategic partnerships to help its members.

“Stephen has been an integral part of the IJO family for over 25 years and has played a vital role in our organization’s success,” Roberts said in a statement.

(Photo courtesy of IJO)