May 29, 2009

Bauer’s Colin Kennedy appointed FHM editor

Bauer Media has announced the appointment of former Empire editor Colin Kennedy as the new editor of FHM.

Kennedy, currently Bauer’s digital creative director, replaces Anthony Noguera, who left in April.

“Ever since I supplied the odd article to FHM’s Reporter section back in 1997, I have waited for a chance to contribute to the worldwide success story of Bauer’s flagship men’s title,” Kennedy said in a statement.

“That this opportunity turns out be as editor during such an important time for the brand is genuinely thrilling – and just a little bit scary.

“Hopefully, some of the things I’ve learned along the way will help me take the team and the title forward into a new decade of success.”

Kennedy’s appointment comes at a difficult time for the men’s magazine market. FHM’s circulation fell 13.5 per cent year on year to 272,545 in the second half of 2008, according to ABC. Arena and Maxim have closed.

The managing director of the Bauer Media men’s lifestyle division, Geoff Campbell, said: “Colin brings a wealth of big brand editorial experience, an impressive track record of innovation and editorial product development, a proven digital ability and a deep understanding of FHM’s audience that will prove invaluable to the continued evolution of this most famous of men’s lifestyle brands.”