Cincinnati Magazine Seeks New Editor-in-Chief
The publication is searching for a new leader as current editor John Fox prepares to retire.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Remote Work
Live Poll
Do you trust local media outlets to maintain quality after long-time editors retire?
Cincinnati Magazine has officially listed an opening for the editor-in-chief position on its website. Current editor John Fox is set to retire at the end of 2026.
Why it matters
The transition marks a pivotal moment for the publication as it prepares to enter its 60th anniversary year in 2027. Fox, 67, intends to step down to allow for fresh leadership.
John Fox has led the publication since 2017 after his tenure at Cincinnati CityBeat concluded in 2012. The magazine is currently planning to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2027.
The players
John Fox
He is the current editor-in-chief of Cincinnati Magazine and a longtime figure in local media who previously co-founded Cincinnati CityBeat.
Cincinnati Magazine
This is a regional publication based in Cincinnati that is preparing to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2027.
The details
The magazine listed the vacancy on its website on October 16, 2026, to initiate the search for a new lead editor. Fox, who previously co-founded and served as editor and co-publisher of Cincinnati CityBeat, aims to pass the torch to an individual with new ideas.
Timeline
John Fox co-founded Cincinnati CityBeat in 1994.
Fox departed Cincinnati CityBeat in 2012.
Fox became editor-in-chief of Cincinnati Magazine in 2017.
The job opening was posted on the company website on October 16, 2026.
Fox is scheduled to retire at the end of 2026.
Market Landscape
This transition aligns with a broader industry trend where legacy city publications refresh their editorial leadership to remain relevant in a changing market. The move positions the magazine to integrate new strategic visions ahead of its upcoming 60th-anniversary milestone.
Readers can expect potential changes in the editorial direction and content focus of the magazine starting in 2027. Subscribers and local advertisers should look for updates regarding the new leadership's vision for the publication's milestone year.
The takeaway
Legacy publications often look to external talent to bridge the gap between their historical identity and future growth. Implementing a clear succession plan allows brands to maintain community trust during critical anniversary periods.
Further reading
For more on the local labor landscape, see Remote Work.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cincinnati.
Live Poll
Do you trust local media outlets to maintain quality after long-time editors retire?
