It’s one of the most coveted jobs in fashion. But, six years after being named editor-in-chief of British Vogue, Edward Enninful is stepping down from the position. Or, rather, stepping up to take a new global role at the publisher Condé Nast that invites speculation he occupies pole position to one day take over from the legendary editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour.
“I am excited to share that from next year I will be stepping into the newly appointed position of editorial advisor of British Vogue and global creative and cultural advisor of Vogue, where I will continue to contribute to the creative and cultural success of the Vogue brand globally while having the freedom to take on broader creative projects,” Enninful wrote to staff.
He said the promotion had come after discussions with Wintour, the editor of American Vogue, and Roger Lynch, the chief executive officer of Condé Nast, about how he could “play a broader role in enhancing Vogue globally.”
He will continue to report to Wintour, who also holds the title of global chief content officer for Condé Nast.
Insiders said the hunt for a replacement was already under way and the role would be posted publicly. However, the position will no longer bear the coveted title of “editor-in chief.” Instead they will be addressed as “head of editorial content”.
This is a move to bring British Vogue in line with Condé Nast’s consolidation strategy. Designed to reduce costs, key editors oversee titles across different markets and content is shared globally. The restructure was first announced in 2020 after years of losses, in the hope of returning to profitability.
In addition to editing British Vogue, Enninful oversees the title in France, Italy, Germany and Spain.
While Vogue covers have remained unique to each country, many fashion shoots and interviews found in each market are now shared.
Enninful is hotly tipped to succeed Wintour, who has been in charge of American Vogue since 1988. His new role puts him in pole positionwhen she does leave.
Wintour hinted earlier this week that a change could be under way. Asked during an interview with the Guardian on Wednesday if she would ever return to her home town of London, Wintour said US Vogue’s creative editorial director had already moved and “I’m not far behind”.
Enninful was named Alexandra Shulman’s successor in 2017, when she departed the British title after 25 years at the helm.
Prior to this, he worked as the fashion director of W magazine (another Condé Nast title) since 2011 and had contributed to Italian Vogue since 1998 and American Vogue since 2006.
His appointment at British Vogue made him the first man, and first black editor, to hold the title.
Announcing his appointment at the time, Condé Nast described Enninful as “an influential figure in the communities of fashion, Hollywood and music which shape the cultural zeitgeist”.
Since his appointment, he has received wide acclaim for championing diversity and inclusivity. Cover stars have included global pop stars such as Rihanna, activists including Greta Thunberg, the football player Marcus Rashford, an 85-year-old Judi Dench, and – most recently – a vanguard of disabled talent.
This month, British Vogue released a braille edition for the first time in its 107-year history. The May issue of the publication was also made available in audio format to increase access for blind and partially sighted people.
