Ex-Essence editor to helm Zink as site returns to print
Constance White, the former editor-in-chief of Essence, is landing at Zink in the same role just as the cutting-edge indie fashion site plots a return to print this spring.
“You have to touch audiences in every area,” said White, “but the cost structures have to come down.”
“The whole structure of media is changing and we all have to adapt,” said White, who had earlier gigs at Elle, Talk, and eBay prior to her stormy two years at Essence — where she clashed with Time Inc. management over the magazine’s direction.
Of her past clashes with Time Inc. brass during her two tumultuous years running the monthly, she said, “It’s in the past. I don’t think about it anymore. It is what it is.”
More recently, she’s been consulting with Ozy.com, backed by Silicon Valley big wheels.
Zink is the rarity, an indie magazine, founded by Sheriff Ishak in 2002, that has remained independently owned and operated.
“It’s about a lot more than fashion — it’s about the constant emergence of art, culture and community all over the world, and how that manifests itself in the things we consume,” said Ishak.
The publication went digital only a year ago, but now is returning to quarterly frequency this year.
Its goal is to grow into a six times a year publication next year. The return to print is expected in April.
Rachael Lewis is joining as president and CEO.