Reilly has spent 39 years in the jewelry industry, including 20 years with PGI USA.
He was a leader in brand building, sales, marketing and education and leaves behind a legacy of partnership development and professional education that has impacted thousands in the industry, PGI said.
“I have been blessed with a career that exceeded my wildest dreams,” Reilly said.
“From my earliest days in retail to the incredible opportunities I was given at Platinum Guild International USA, every chapter of my journey has been filled with meaningful work, cherished friendships, and unforgettable experiences.”
Reilly began his career as a member of Macy’s Executive Development Program before holding senior leadership positions at two prominent companies, Lazare Kaplan International and Taché USA.
He joined PGI USA in 2006, where he played an instrumental role in elevating platinum’s position within the U.S. jewelry market and developing strategic partnerships across the supply chain, the company said.
Reilly established platinum jewelry education programs at the Gemological Institute of America, Pratt Institute, Savannah College of Art and Design, Rhode Island School of Design, the 92nd Street Y Jewelry Center, and the Miami Jewelry School.
He also led platinum training seminars for thousands of retail sales associates and spearheaded the creation of an online platinum sales training video series with Elias World Media that earned a Bronze Telly Award in the category of Video Series, Education and Training, Business-to-Business.
Reilly frequently spoke at conferences and events, sharing how manufacturers and retailers can grow their businesses through platinum.
Beyond the jewelry industry, Reilly also had a long career in special event production.
For 48 years, he has served as a member of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Committee, helping produce nationally televised events including the parade, Macy’s 4th of July fireworks, and other holiday spectacles.
“Creating magical moments for millions of people, whether through jewelry or through great events, has always been my passion,” Reilly said.
“I have been fortunate to enjoy two careers that brought me tremendous joy and allowed me to work alongside some of the most talented and inspiring people imaginable.”
Reilly said working at PGI USA was the opportunity of a lifetime.
“[It was] a place where my talents were recognized, my ideas were encouraged and I was given the freedom to pursue my passions while delivering meaningful results for an industry I love,” he said.
“Along the way, I’ve made incredible friends who will remain friends for life.”
He added, “I am especially grateful to my boss, my mentor and my very dear friend, Jenny Luker. She believed in me, opened doors I never thought possible, and changed the course of my career. For that, I will be forever grateful.”
Luker, president of PGI USA, said Reilly had been an incredible asset to the company, adding that it was an honor and privilege to work with him.
“Beyond being an exceptional professional, he has been a trusted colleague and dear friend, whose integrity, wisdom, and kindness have left a lasting mark on anyone who knows him. While we will certainly miss his leadership and daily presence, we are grateful for his many years of dedication and the impact and legacy he leaves behind,” she said.
After the summer, Reilly will consider doing some consulting in the jewelry industry as well as special event production projects.
He also will continue his longtime service on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Committee.
“I leave this chapter with a full heart, immense gratitude, and excitement for what comes next,” he said.
“The relationships, experiences, and memories I’ve made throughout these past 39 years are gifts that I will cherish forever.”