Swarovski Hires First Creative Director

RAPAPORT… Swarovski has appointed Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert as its first creative director as part of the company’s new business realignment.

Engelbert, who has worked as a creative director, international editor and fashion consultant for luxury brands for more than 20 years, was already serving as a creative consultant for Swarovski’s business-to-business (B2B) division, the crystal maker said Tuesday. She will now oversee creative for the entire company and reimagine the brand’s product portfolio across all divisions.

The move is part of the company’s effort to realign its operations along a new vision and growth strategy. Last month, Swarovski appointed Robert Buchbauer as CEO, while Markus Langes-Swarovski left the board.

“With [Engelbert’s] remarkable track record in the industry and compelling point of view, she will explore new frontiers and become a vital part in writing the next chapter of our success story,” Buchbauer said.

Swarovski will showcase Engelbert’s first designs in its spring/summer 2021 collection.

Image: Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert. (Swarovski)