Harper’s Bazaar editor-in-chief steps down
The editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar Australia and New Zealand has stepped down, after nearly four years in the role.
Jillian Davison was appointed as editor-in-chief in 2021, tasked with overseeing all content, development, and creative direction for the relaunched fashion publication’s digital and brand platforms.
The over 150-year-old magazine was relaunched by Hearst Magazines International and Switzer Media and Publishing during a time when the global publishing industry faced significant disruptions. It was previously under the Are Media group — then known as Bauer Media — which closed in mid-2020 due to these disruptions.
Davison succeeded Eugenie Kelly, and according to a media release on Thursday, was “instrumental” in redefining the magazine’s creative vision.
Davison
“Jillian’s creative leadership and her deep respect within the industry have significantly enhanced BAZAAR Australia. Her vision and passion have made a lasting impact on the brand, and we are grateful for her contribution,” Alex Switzer, CEO of Switzer Media and Publishing, said in the release.
Davison said shaping a modern editorial vision for Harper’s Bazaar was an “incredible privilege”.
“I’m immensely proud of what we have built together and excited to see the brand continue to innovate,” she continued.
“I look forward to forging new creative opportunities and contributing to the ever-evolving fashion and cultural landscape in fresh and meaningful ways.”
Hearst Magazines International and Switzer Media and Publishing also brought back Harper’s Bazaar’s former Are Media stablemates Men’s Health and Women’s Health in 2023. The magazines were also part of the 2020 closures.
Launched late 2023, the magazines were brought back in a digital capacity, with monthly digital covers, daily on-site and social media content, and VIP programs for subscribers.
Switzer Media and Publishing also has Esquire Australia within its brand portfolio.
The publisher said further details about Harper’s Bazaar’s leadership and fashion teams will be announced in coming weeks.
Keep up to date with the latest in media and marketing
Got a tip?
Lauren McNamara is a freelance journalist contributing to Mumbrella. She previously spent three years at the publication, most recently as the associate editor. She first joined in 2022 after completing a Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) at UTS. She left her staff role at Mumbrella in August 2025.
Linkedin
topics
Alex Switzer
editor
Harper's Bazaar
Jillian Davison
magazine
publishing
Switzer Media & Publishing
