Nicholas Coleridge, English journalist and businessman

Born on March 4, 1957, Nicholas David Coleridge stands as a remarkably influential figure across the British cultural and business landscape. His distinguished career spans decades, marked by significant leadership roles in the publishing world, prominent positions in national arts institutions, and active involvement with charitable and royal initiatives. Coleridge's journey is a testament to a deep engagement with media, heritage, and philanthropy, establishing him as a key shaper of public and cultural discourse in the UK.

Leadership in Arts and Royal Patronage

Nicholas Coleridge currently holds several prestigious chairmanships, reflecting his commitment to heritage and the arts. Since 2015, he has served as the Chairman of the world-renowned Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London, a role he assumed after being a dedicated trustee from 2012 to 2015. The V&A, a global leader in art, design, and performance, benefits greatly from his vision and experience. Beyond the museum, Coleridge also chairs the Prince of Wales' innovative Campaign for Wool, a role he has held since 2013, having previously served as deputy chair from 2008. This campaign passionately advocates for the natural, sustainable, and versatile properties of wool, promoting its use across various industries. His artistic stewardship extends to the Gilbert Trust for the Arts, where he also serves as chairman. More recently, in February 2021, Coleridge was appointed co-chair of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant, a monumental celebration honoring Her Majesty's historic reign, underscoring his deep connections to national events. His philanthropic spirit is further evidenced by his ambassadorship for the Landmark Trust and his patronage of the Elephant Family, demonstrating a broad spectrum of interests from architectural preservation to wildlife conservation.

A Publishing Titan: Three Decades at Condé Nast

Perhaps best known for his immense contributions to the publishing industry, Nicholas Coleridge spent an impressive three decades, from 1989 to 2019, steering the fortunes of Condé Nast, a global media powerhouse. His tenure was a journey through various pivotal roles, starting as editorial director of Condé Nast Britain. He then ascended to managing director of Condé Nast Britain from 1991 to 2017, overseeing the strategic direction and growth of iconic titles within the UK market. Concurrently, he became a formidable force on the international stage, serving as vice president and later president of Condé Nast International. This expansive division was responsible for publishing a staggering 139 magazines across 27 international markets, alongside over 100 websites, generating annual revenues estimated at approximately $1 billion. Condé Nast's portfolio under his leadership included an enviable array of influential magazines such as Vogue, Vanity Fair, House & Garden, Tatler, The World of Interiors, Condé Nast Traveller, The New Yorker, Architectural Digest, Glamour, GQ, Brides, Wired, Love, and GQ Style. Beyond print, the company's holdings also encompassed the prestigious Johansens hotel guides and the innovative Condé Nast College of Fashion and Design, further solidifying its influence in luxury lifestyle and education. From 2017 until his departure in 2019, he served as chairman of Condé Nast Britain, leaving an indelible mark on an industry he helped redefine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nicholas David Coleridge

Who is Nicholas David Coleridge?
Nicholas David Coleridge is a prominent British executive and philanthropist, widely recognized for his extensive career at Condé Nast and his significant leadership roles in national arts institutions and royal initiatives.
What are his main current roles?
He currently serves as Chairman of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), Chairman of the Prince of Wales' Campaign for Wool, Chairman of the Gilbert Trust for the Arts, and co-chair of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant. He is also an ambassador for the Landmark Trust and a patron of the Elephant Family.
What was his role at Condé Nast?
From 1989 to 2019, Nicholas Coleridge held various leadership positions at Condé Nast, including editorial director of Condé Nast Britain, managing director of Condé Nast Britain (1991–2017), vice president, and later president of Condé Nast International. He concluded his tenure as chairman of Condé Nast Britain from 2017 to 2019.
Which magazines did Condé Nast publish under his international leadership?
Under his leadership, Condé Nast International published a vast array of globally recognized titles, including but not limited to Vogue, Vanity Fair, House & Garden, Tatler, The World of Interiors, Condé Nast Traveller, The New Yorker, Architectural Digest, Glamour, GQ, Brides, Wired, Love, and GQ Style.