by POPSUGAR Fashion News 0

>> Carol Smith, Elle's senior vice president and chief brand officer, is leaving Hachette Filipacchi after eight years with the company to join Conde Nast, where she will act as vice president and publishing director of two non-fashion brands: Bon Appetit and Gourmet (the latter which folded as a magazine last October).

Smith, who leaves Elle at the end of the month, will report to Tom Florio, Vogue's senior vice president and publishing director, causing speculation that Smith is auditioning for the Vogue publisher position while Florio prepares himself for a move up within the company.

“Carol Smith will oversee business developments for the brands that will include TV, books, and online opportunities,” said a Conde Nast corporate spokeswoman.