Uri was born in 1948 to parents of Eastern Europe decent.

He studies at Bar Ilan grade school, and graduated from an exclusive Yeshiva high school in Pardes Hana.

Uri went on to serve in the military in a combat unit and filled various training positions. During the Hatasha war he participated in military activities in the Suez canal.

Once released from the military, Uri joined the family business with his father and older brother. At the same time, he obtained an education in various economic and business areas.

In a short time period, and with Uri's management skills, the small, conservative family business gradually developed into one of the leading companies in the diamond industry, domestically and globally.

In the years 1985 and 1996, Uri received recognition of Exporter of the year from Israel's President, for the management of a production plant employing 350 employees.

Despite his young age, and as recognition of his outstanding leadership, Uri was elected to serve as President of the Israeli Diamond Manufacturers Association in 1988.

Among other notable achievements in this role, Uri succeeded in promoting the Diamond industry, accountable for a labor force of 18000 manufacturers, to become one of the leading industries in Israel under the Export Association's umbrella.

At the same time, he managed to transform the industry to a modern, technologically advanced industry, while incorporating electronic tools, and serving as the main force behind introducing computerization and internet into the industry.

In 2001, Uri was re-elected for an additional term as the Association President, and had made it his goal to honorably represent the Association globally.

Today, Uri serves as President of A. Schwartz & Sons. The company recently celebrated half a century since being founded, and currently includes 7 offices worldwide.

Among other activities, Uri takes part in leading economic organizations in the Israeli economy, and contributes a portion of his time and passion to promoting the Israeli economy.

Uri is happily married to Josianne, daughter to a well established diamondeering family in Belgium. He is father to 3 children and grandfather of 10.