Nancy Robey, formerly group vice president of business development for VNU Expositions and a driving force behind the Couture Collection & Conference, is stepping down from that post to join Collectors Universe Inc. as its chief marketing officer. Her position becomes effective Nov. 1.

Collectors Universe Inc. is a provider of value-added authentication and grading services to dealers and collectors of high-value collectibles, diamonds, and colored gemstones. The firm recently acquired the American Gemological Laboratories, (see article above) following its November 2005 acquisition of Gem Certification and Assurance Lab (GCAL).

Robey will initially focus her efforts on the gem and jewelry industry.