Lebedev drafts in ex-gq editor to revive Evening Standard
THE Russian-born owner of London’s
has called in the former editor of men’s magazine GQ as he tries to salvage the newspaper’s floundering efforts to adapt to a digital future.
The Daily Telegraph understands that Lord Lebedev has appointed Dylan Jones, a prominent journalist who ran GQ from 1999 until 2021, as editorial consultant.
The Evening Standard yesterday abruptly parted ways with its chief executive as part of a wider shake-up.
Charles Yardley, who took the top job in June 2020, is stepping down with immediate effect. He will be replaced on an interim basis by Rich Mead, chief operating and financial officer.
In a note to staff seen by The Daily Telegraph, Paul Kanareck, interim executive chairman, said: “Charles joined the business at the beginning of the pandemic and has admirably steered the business through some of the most challenging times in recent years.
“From progressing the organisation’s culture and values through to the development of critical new growth areas such as branded content, live exhibitions and web 3.0 innovations.”
In a short email sent subsequently, Mr Yardley said: “It has been a pleasure, and a privilege to work with every facet of the business and lead this enormously dedicated and loyal team. I genuinely look forward to its next era and feel confident that many of the foundations are firmly in place for the business to flourish.”
Jones is one of the best-known names in British journalism, rubbing shoulders with celebrities and hosting star-studded parties. The writer worked with David Cameron on the then Conservative leader’s 2008 biography, Cameron on Cameron.
His appointment comes as the Evening Standard struggles to recover from a collapse in commuting and deep advertising downturn during the Covid crisis.
The leadership changes mean the Evening Standard now has both an interim chief executive and chairman.
It is also still searching for a permanent editor to replace Emily Sheffield, the sister-in-law of Mr Cameron, after she stepped down in 2021 following just 15 months in the role.