Edward Enninful, the groundbreaking editor-in-chief of British Vogue, is set to step down from his position and embark on a new global advisory role within the company. The news of his departure echoes the recent trend of editor-in-chief changes within Vogue magazines. Enninful, who made history as the first black editor to lead Vogue in 2017, will now have the opportunity to explore broader creative projects.
The announcement of Enninful’s departure was made in Vogue Business, the official publication of Condé Nast, the influential New York-based magazine empire that owns Vogue and other renowned titles. While some may view this as a promotion, it is more likely that Enninful is gracefully transitioning into a different position within the company.
During his time at the helm of British Vogue, Enninful brought about a visual transformation that garnered widespread praise. However, the magazine’s written content received mixed reviews. Enninful assumed his role at a time when Condé Nast experienced significant changes, including the departure of editors-in-chief from Vogue editions in China, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Instead of appointing replacements, Condé Nast introduced the position of head of editorial content, with junior editors reporting directly to Anna Wintour, global chief content officer for Condé Nast and editor-in-chief of American Vogue.
Unlike other Vogue editions, British Vogue remained unaffected by downsizing, with Enninful retaining his title as editor-in-chief while reporting to Wintour. In addition to his editorial responsibilities, Enninful played a role in managing cost reductions at Condé Nast in Europe. This resulted in shared features and fashion shoots across multiple Vogues, translated into local languages.
Interestingly, Enninful will not be succeeded by another editor-in-chief at British Vogue. Instead, he will assist in the search for a head of editorial content for the magazine. This further highlights the evolving landscape of Condé Nast and the changing dynamics of leadership roles within the organization.
As Enninful prepares to depart from British Vogue, he is also poised to style a major fashion event in Florence called Runway Icons. This event, supported by Luisa via Roma, a prominent boutique and e-tailer in the city, serves as a testament to Enninful’s enduring influence and creativity in the fashion industry.
Despite the departure of yet another Vogue editor-in-chief, Edward Enninful’s transition to a global advisory role demonstrates his versatility and potential for new creative ventures. It will be fascinating to witness the impact he will make in his new position and how it will shape the future of British Vogue.
Useful links:
1. Vogue Business
2. Luisa via Roma
