Chioma Nnadi Takes the Helm of British Vogue Alongside Anna Wintour

A new era is dawning at British Vogue following the announcement that editor-in-chief Edward Enninful will be succeeded by Chioma Nnadi, Vogue’s current U.S. website director. The historic changing of the guard comes after years of rumored behind-the-scenes power struggles between Enninful and Anna Wintour in her role overseeing all Vogue titles.

Wintour ultimately emerges victorious, with Nnadi known as a devoted longtime ally who will reportedly still answer to the U.S. office. While Enninful held the top title of editor-in-chief, Nnadi will be ‘head of editorial content’ focused on digital. This consolidation of control under Wintour has drawn comparisons to Machiavellian fictional fashion boss Miranda Priestly.

Nonetheless, Nnadi will make history as the first Black woman to helm the British fashion bible. The London native credits her Nigerian father for sparking her passion for fashion from a young age. She climbed the ranks from indie magazines to the Evening Standard before Wintour brought her to Vogue’s New York office in 2010.

Colleagues describe Nnadi as Wintour’s opposite – shy, calm and nuanced rather than the celebrity editor Enninful had become. She will draw on her multicultural background to evolve British Vogue’s voice beyond the glitz.

The changing of the guard follows years of rumors about Wintour limiting Enninful’s autonomy. Despite his barrier-breaking appointment in 2017, former British Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman noted he was “always playing second fiddle” to Wintour after Vogue’s 2020 corporate restructuring.

This perceived power struggle culminated in Enninful’s departure and replacement by Wintour’s trusted deputy editor. While a major shift, Wintour maintains it will keep British Vogue at the forefront of fashion.

Nnadi’s appointment represents the duality of progress through diversity and consolidation of control. On one hand, her multicultural perspective will enrich Vogue’s global voice. But Wintour’s empire simultaneously expands by curating editorial leadership loyal to her vision.

As the iconic editor enters the twilight of her reign, she is securing her influence for the next generation. Nnadi’s role may lack Enninful’s autonomy, but under Wintour’s wing, she will usher British Vogue into a new era.