Josephine Chan steps up as managing director of SCMP Magazines

Chan (pictured) has more than 20 years’ industry experience and extensive knowledge of the local women’s magazine market. At SCMP Group, she helped to launch Harpers’ Bazaar as chief editor, and was subsequently promoted to general manager and publisher of SCMP Magazines Publishing Since 2008 she has managed the China magazines business operations for the Group.

Chan's promotion news follows the 20 June formation of a joint venture by SCMP Group and Hearst Magazines International, under which SCMP Hearst Hong Kong will publish Elle and related titles.

SCMP Group stated that the promotion reflects a broader scope of duties for Chan, who will now oversee all business operations for SCMP Hearst Publications, SCMP Hearst Hong Kong, and SCMP Magazines Publishing (HK) - all of the business entities forming the SCMP Magazines Publishing division under SCMP Group. Chan continues to report to Elsie Cheung, Group’s chief operating officer.

The Group now publishes a significant share of Hong Kong’s top women’s titles, including Cosmopolitan, CosmoGirl, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and their respective websites. Estee Lauder Group, L’Oreal Group and Shiseido Group are some of the key advertisers.

Cosmopolitan and Harper’s Bazaar will have e-magazine versions starting in August. A spokesperson said that advertisers who place print ads will receive online ad space free for the time being.

Asked whether online publishing is hurting the circulation of print titles, the spokesperson said that thanks to the many promotions fashion designers give as limited-edition gifts within magazines, print circulation remains stable. The digital format is increasing in importance, although it may not directly replace print but complement it as a part of an integrated platform.