Adam Moss

Adam Moss. An influential American editor and publishing executive, he is best known for his transformative leadership of ''New York'' magazine, which he guided to critical and commercial success for over a decade. His career has been defined by revitalizing major magazines, mentoring a generation of journalists, and earning numerous accolades for editorial excellence, including multiple National Magazine Awards. Moss's work has left a lasting imprint on the landscape of New York City media and contemporary magazine journalism.

Early life and education

Born in New York City, he grew up immersed in the cultural life of Manhattan. He attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied English literature and began his foray into journalism. After graduating, he quickly entered the professional media world, moving back to his hometown to begin a career that would become centered on its institutions and stories.

Career

His early professional years included a stint at the ''Village Voice'' before he joined ''The New York Times'' in 1987. At the ''Times'', he held several significant positions, including arts editor and eventually the editor of ''The New York Times Magazine'' in the late 1990s. He later served as deputy editor of the magazine under editor Michael Pollan. In 2003, he was appointed editor of ''New York'' magazine, a role that would define his legacy. He also had a brief tenure as editor-in-chief of ''Esquire'' magazine in the late 1990s. Throughout his career, he has been credited with discovering and nurturing talent, from writers to photographers and illustrators.

Editorial leadership and impact

At ''New York'' magazine, he oversaw a comprehensive redesign and strategic shift, expanding its coverage beyond traditional city magazine fare to include pioneering national political reporting, deep cultural criticism, and innovative service journalism. He launched the influential culture website Vulture, the strategic intelligence site Intelligencer, and the shopping blog The Strategist. His editorial vision successfully bridged print and digital platforms, making the publication a must-read for influential audiences in New York City and beyond. He is widely regarded for creating an environment that produced ambitious long-form narratives and sharp, witty criticism, influencing contemporaries like ''The Atlantic'' and ''The New Yorker''.

Awards and recognition

Under his leadership, ''New York'' magazine won an unprecedented number of National Magazine Awards, considered the highest honor in the industry. The publication earned awards for General Excellence, Design, Photography, and Essays and Criticism. Specific issues, such as the landmark 9/11 coverage and the "Bernie Madoff" issue, were particularly celebrated. He has also been a recipient of the Gerald Loeb Award for business journalism. In 2016, the American Society of Magazine Editors inducted him into its Hall of Fame in recognition of his career achievements and lasting contributions to the field.

Personal life

He is married to Michael J. Wishart, an executive in the home furnishings industry. He is known to be a dedicated patron of the arts, frequently attending exhibitions at institutions like the Museum of Modern Art and performances at The Public Theater. An avid collector of contemporary art, he maintains a residence in Greenwich Village, continuing his lifelong connection to the cultural fabric of New York City.

Category:American magazine editors Category:University of Pennsylvania alumni Category:1957 births Category:Living people