Although I don't know the reasons why Glenda Nevill has vacated her position as editor of The Property Magazine in favour of a position in PR, I can guess editorial control had something to do with it. Every time I pitched an editorial idea she would defer to her publisher before responding.
Naomi Larkin, Style's new editor addressed PR-Net in Gauteng last week. I had a strong sense from her that the magazine would finally be on an upward trend because of what I imagine is an iron-fisted approach to editorial content. I project that Caxton hired Naomi to get the job done and I have no doubts she will show her publisher the door before placing something contrary to her vision in the magazine.
As much as it is essential for an editor to understand the financial demands of publishing, I believe that a publisher that seems themselves and not the editor as the kingpin is misguided. While a sympathetic arrangement between the Money and the Creatives is ideal, I think that in all editorial matters the editor should be the only arbiter.
As she was to The Property Magazine, Glenda will be a real asset to HWB Communications. Of course it remains to be seen if the reality of having zero editorial control on the publicist's side of the fence will hinder her from making the contribution to our industry that those who know her have come to expect.