Chris Berend returns to Hearst in top magazines content role
The former NBCUniversal News Group digital chief will oversee editorial strategy and programming across Hearst Magazines starting Aug. 3.
By Georgia Hale · Staff Writer
2 min read
Chris Berend is heading back to Hearst, this time with a much bigger job.
Hearst Magazines has named Berend its chief content and experience officer, a newly created role that puts him in charge of editorial strategy, content creation and programming across the company’s platforms, Variety reported.
Berend is set to start Aug. 3 at the New York-based publisher and will report to Hearst Magazines president Debi Chirichella, according to the report.
The job covers a portfolio of some of the biggest names on the magazine rack and beyond, including Cosmopolitan, Elle, Esquire, Harper’s Bazaar and Good Housekeeping.
A new job at a legacy publisher
Berend most recently served as chief digital officer of NBCUniversal News Group, Variety reported. In that post, he worked on expanding NBC News in streaming, subscriptions, commerce and newer digital platforms.
He also helped shape NBCUniversal News Group’s approach to generative AI, according to the report.
His move to Hearst follows his departure from NBCUniversal News Group. The appointment gives Hearst a senior executive with a résumé built across digital news, video, magazines and brand extensions.
Chirichella said in a statement that Berend brings “a deep understanding of the editorial process,” business leadership and a record of growth in video and content experiences.
She added that she was excited about what Hearst would build with him as the company works to innovate across its brands and strengthen audience relationships.
From Esquire to CNN, NBC and back
Berend’s media career began at Hearst’s Esquire, where he worked as an editor, Variety reported. The new role marks a return to the company where he first got started.
Before joining NBCUniversal in 2019, Berend worked at CNN as senior vice president of global video. In that role, he led video content, distribution, operations and custom production, according to the report.
He also co-founded Great Big Story, CNN’s video brand. Earlier in his career, he held digital leadership posts at Bloomberg and ESPN Magazine.
Berend said in a statement that he was excited to join Hearst at “a moment of real opportunity.” He said he was drawn to helping turn the company’s well-known brands into modern, audience-focused businesses.
He also said the work would build on the brands’ influence, authority and loyalty while creating new experiences intended to drive growth.
The appointment lands at a moment when magazine publishers continue to push their brands across digital platforms, video, commerce and direct audience products. Hearst’s new role gives one executive a broad brief over how that content is shaped and delivered across its titles.
This story draws on original reporting from Variety.