Tatler editor Geordie Greig will become the new editor of London’s Evening Standard, the paper confirmed today.
Current editor Veronica Wadley will step down after seven years ‘to pursue new interests in journalism”, a statement said.
Greig, 48, has been editor of society magazine Tatler since 1999. He has also worked for the Daily Mail and The Sunday Times.
He is also a shareholder in Evening Press, the Lebedev brothers’ company that owns 75.1 per cent of the Standard, subject to the deal being confirmed this month.
Greig’s appointment will be ratified by the Standard’s new ‘editorial committee”, designed to ensure editorial independence, and expected to comprise well-known media figures.
Last month, a source close to the Lebedevs told Press Gazette the paper would move upmarket, with more ‘high-end’culture, and fewer celebrity photos.
The paper’s paid-for circulation has plummeted in recent years. Overall circulation improved last year to 287,173, according to ABC’s December figures – but only 158,382 were at full price.
Wadley, a former deputy editor of the Daily Mail, said: “I am very proud to have edited this great London newspaper and, with the huge support of the staff, to have built it up into a prize-winning newspaper.
“The Evening Standard is an important London institution held in equal measures of respect and affection. I sincerely hope it will have a secure future.
“I have had 12 very happy years at Associated and leave with the greatest affection for everyone, particularly the Standard’s staff who have shown such selfless commitment over the years.”
Associated Newspapers editor-in-chief Paul Dacre said: “I’d like to pay tribute to Veronica. She is a brilliant professional journalist who has brought great distinction and courage to editing the Standard which, despite some difficult times, is a very fine paper.
“Veronica’s legacy is the outstanding team of journalists she has built up over the years with such skill.
“Associated is very grateful to her for everything and wishes her the best for the future.”
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