MARY’S STORY
The MAGAZINE EXPERT evolved from being involved in various publishing projects while lecturing at Solent University. Having specialised in magazine publishing and editorial strategies, Mary had already developed a reputation for expertise when she was approached to help launch Vegetarian Living magazine in 2010.
In 2014, her first book, How To Launch A Magazine In This Digital Age, was published by Bloomsbury. More clients followed, and in 2015, after running the consultancy part-time, Mary left Solent University to focus on her business, turning The MAGAZINE EXPERTÂ into a limited company.
Since then, her expertise (initially gained while managing editor at Writers International Ltd, working on national monthly and quarterly titles) has grown considerably. With her consultancy practice continuing to evolve, Mary has worked with a variety of clients on a diverse range of projects across lifestyle, B2B and specialist sectors – including some exciting new title launches such as The Mint and Mosaic and Glass.
In 2018, her second book, Business Strategies For Magazine Publishing, was published by Routledge. As well as interviews with high-profile publishers and editors such as the former editor of Vogue, Alexandra Shulman, it features numerous case studies developed from her consultancy work. The following year, her third book, Writing Feature Articles, also published by Routledge, made its debut.
Passionate about developing young talent, Mary – a HEA Senior Fellow – also has a fractional post at Bournemouth University as a Senior Lecturer and holds two External Examiner roles (Falmouth University and the University of Hertfordshire). Her previous roles in Higher Education include Head of Features Journalism at Solent University.
Currently, Mary is working on a doctorate investigating the servitization of specialist magazines. Research and development interests include emerging business models, sustainable revenue strategies, new title launches, editorial development and audience engagement.