Hearst announced a handful of high-profile changes among its publishers today. The most surprising of which is that Donna Lagani is stepping down from her role as publisher of Cosmopolitan after more than 20 years and joining the Hearst Foundations in an undisclosed role. “Philanthropy is an important part of my life, and this is something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said. “I’ve had the absolute best job on the planet for more than two decades, overseeing Cosmopolitan, the most powerful young women’s media brand in the world, and more recently, adding Seventeen, Women’s Health and brand licensing to my purview. Now, after a ‘fun and fearless’ career generating revenue and profits, I feel truly blessed to work with the Foundations.”
Stepping into Lagani’s shoes is Nancy Berger, who will take over as publisher of Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, and Seventeen. Berger was most recently vice president/publisher and chief revenue officer of Marie Claire.
Blair Hecht — most recently the associate publisher of Elle — will take over as publisher of Marie Claire.
Kevin O’Malley, SVP and publishing director/CRO of Elle, will also add oversight of Marie Claire to his responsibilities.
Finally, Kate Kelly Smith, who was SVP, CRO, and publishing director of the Hearst Design Group, is retiring in March, at which point Jennifer Bruno, currently VP, CRO, and publisher of Town & Country, will have her role expanded to include House Beautiful, Veranda, and Elle Decor.
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