Vogue Education Presents: Albert Read – The Man Bridging Worlds Between Publishing and Imagination
The Condé Nast College was delighted to welcome Albert Read to the lecture theatre as our keynote speaker for the new academic year. BA (Hons) Fashion Communication & Industry Practice student, Ellie Gallacher reports…
Our Vogue Education Presents keynote speaker was author and former Condé Nast managing director, Albert Read. On Tuesday 3rd October, Albert imparted his encyclopaedic knowledge on honing your imagination. Considering the topic of his illustrious new book, The Imagination Muscle, the students of Condé Nast College were given an unrivalled insight.
About Albert Read
Until August of this year, Albert Read was the managing director of Condé Nast Britain, a position that saw him at the helm of iconic titles, including British Vogue, GQ, Vanity Fair, GQ Style, Tatler, Condé Nast Traveller, Glamour, Wired UK, Love, House & Garden, World of Interiors, and Condé Nast Johansens.
Albert’s journey is marked by his academic prowess and journalistic excellence. With his degree from Oxford University, Read ventured into the world of journalism. Contributing to many esteemed publications such as The Spectator, The Daily Mail, The Daily Express, and The Daily Telegraph.
With this keen insight and editorial acumen laying the groundwork, Albert transitioned to the dynamic landscape of Condé Nast. On a trajectory that was marked by continual growth and leadership which ultimately culminated in his promotion to managing director of Condé Nast Britain in early 2017. This pivotal role saw him steering some of the most influential and beloved publications in the industry.
Albert began with a nod to his strong connection to the Condé Nast College. Noting, “The College is a perfectly logical extension for the conglomerate that is Condé Nast”. With the authority and legitimacy of such a business, it lends well to education and as he was involved in its coming to fruition he adds, “I feel very proud to have played a small part in it.”
“The College is a perfectly logical extension for Condé Nast.” Albert Read
The Imagination Muscle
Beyond the corridors of corporate leadership, Albert Read has ventured into the world of writing. Introducing his book, titled, The Imagination Muscle. Published in 2023, this literary undertaking showcases the boundless landscapes of creativity and imagination. Read draws upon his own experiences and wisdom accumulated over years of navigating the worlds of media, publishing, and business.
Albert’s book discusses harnessing your imagination, he fittingly introduces students to his seven rules for leading an imaginative life. These are as follows;
- Power of Observation
- Retaining the Mindset of a Beginner
- Having Imaginative Courage
- The Cluster (Who you surround yourself with)
- Originality
- Read What No One Else is Reading
- Find Your Imaginative Moments
“It’s a book full of rules”, Albert quips, but who better to take guidance from? Filling the room with anecdotes and examples of a lifetime overflowing with creation.
Throughout history, humans have shown their endless intelligence for innovation and ideation, so why now does this space feel so stagnant? Albert poses the question and is raring to answer. “Creativity is such a powerful force” he declares with passion.
His seven rules offer insight into how to harness this force in today’s landscape. “There is more to be lost than by not engaging with your imagination” Albert professes, “By acting in pursuit, you acquire a deeper curiosity”. This drive for curiosity leaves students with a desire to further their creative powers. If not inspired enough already, Albert’s final note is this, “When you leave education, the learning isn’t over. Instead, it marks only the beginning”.
As Albert Read’s tenure at Condé Nast Britain concludes, his legacy remains woven into the fabric of the publishing industry through The Imagination Muscle.
Photographs by Alyssa Mullings, BA (Hons) Fashion Communication & Industry Practice student
By Ellie Gallacher, BA (Hons) Fashion Communication & Industry Practice student