Magazine publisher Hearst UK has hired Claire Hodgson as the new editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan, replacing former editor Farrah Storr.
Hodgson was made Cosmopolitan’s digital editor in November 2015 and promoted to digital editorial director in April last year. During this time, she oversaw the launch of Cosmopolitan’s Snapchat channel in 2015, which Hearst claims has grown the magazine’s social following to over 5.2m.
In her new role, Hodgson will oversee the print magazine, as well as Cosmopolitan’s events portfolio – including the Cosmopolitan Career Summit and the Cosmopolitan Influencer Awards. She will be supported by Stuart Selner on creative, Amy Grier on print and Jess Edwards on digital.
“I have read Cosmopolitan since I was a teenager so to be made editor-in-chief is a dream come true,” Hodgson said.
“Cosmopolitan is all about uplifting, empowering and championing young women everywhere, spotlighting new voices and creating a sense of community.
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“It not only epitomises diversity and inclusivity, but has built a reputation for fearless, award-winning investigative journalism that will continue to underpin everything we do. I am thrilled to be taking the helm at such an exciting time for Cosmopolitan and have the opportunity to work with such a talented team, who are just as obsessed with the brand as I am.”
Commenting on the appointment, Jacqui Cave, managing director of Cosmopolitan UK added: “Claire has a proven track record for generating meaningful content which engages audiences across multiple channels.”
“She has built Cosmopolitan’s digital proposition to be one of the most highly-respected, inclusive and inspiring brands in the industry and she is the perfect person to lead Cosmopolitan’s further cross-platform brand alignment that will benefit both consumers and commercial partners.”
Meanwhile, the CEO of Hearst UK, James Wildman, described the move as “an exciting chapter in the evolution of our business” and one which highlights Hearst’s “commitment to providing strong development opportunities for standout talent”.
Hodgson begins her new role with immediate effect.
