Editorial directors

One of my favorite developments in our industry is the emergence of the editorial director. Back when I started this game, there was little room for a trade journalist to advance once he'd become editor-in-chief of his publication. And since many talented people reach that level quickly in the trade press, challenges can be hard to find in the later years.
But now publishers have embraced the idea of an editorial director -- a more seasoned, editorial executive to oversee content at a number of publications. It's a great idea that benefits readers and staff.
For example, check out the background of Thomas Andel. The 25-year publishing veteran has been named editorial director of Advanstar's Paperboard Packaging magazine, Official Board Markets magazine and boxbiz, an electronic newsletter.