(IDEX Online) - Swarovski, the family-owned crystal and jewelry company, is to have an "outsider" permanently at the helm for the first time in its 127-year history.The Austria-based business has appointed Alexis Nasard (pictured), from Switzerland, currently a senior business advisor at management consultants McKinsey & Company.He replaces Michele Molon, a non-family member, who served as CEO on an interim basis only.The appointment follows the departure of a number of family members. Robert Buchbauer, great-great grandson of the company's founder Daniel, was appointed CEO in April 2020 but quit 18 months later.Mathias Margreiter, also a member of the Swarovski family, served as CFO but quit last October.Nadja Swarovski left her brand and marketing role and went on to step down as executive board member.In a statement, Luisa Delgado, chair of the board of directors, said: "With the appointment of Swarovski's first external CEO, effective on July 4, we are taking an important further step in establishing a sustainable governance model."With Alexis Nasard as the new CEO, we are very pleased to have been able to select a highly experienced and transformational leadership personality who is capable of leading Swarovski in the affirmation of its iconic luxury heritage and through its business transformation."