Cosmopolitan editrix Joanna Coles has been named chief content officer at Hearst, the publishing co. announced today. The appointment comes after Ellen Levine announced she’s stepping down as editorial director at Hearst later this year to become a consultant. In the newly created role, JoCo will work closely with Hearst editors, lead new magazine development activities, and oversee expansion into TV, live events, and new businesses. She’ll also join forces with Hearst’s digital marketing agency iCrossing on branded content, and oversee consumer research, books, and the team in New York that supports Hearst’s international editions.
“This is a truly dynamic moment for magazine media, and the opportunities are endless,” Coles said in a press statement. “I’m excited to work alongside the extremely talented teams across the company to come up with new businesses and brands, new collaborations and partnerships, and new ways to engage our audiences around the world.”
“Joanna is a powerhouse modern editor—she has strengthened the thought-leadership of Cosmopolitan and established deep relationships with major players in advertising, technology, entertainment and government,” said Hearst Magazines president David Carey in a release, to whom Coles will continue to report. “She has a creative, curious mind and her boundless energy will be an integral part of all we do, as we forge an even closer connection between our U.S. and international media businesses.”
Coles joined Hearst in ’06 when she was named EIC at Marie Claire, where she spearheaded its partnership with Project Runway. Previously, she was New York bureau chief for The Guardian, which she left to become the New York columnist at The Times of London. The New York Times recently called her “one of the most powerful people in media”…she is certainly living up to the title!
