
Natalie Massenet Is Working On Several New Projects; She’s Not Going To American Vogue
Months later, Natalie Massenet is back in the headlines.
Last September, donbleek.com reported that Net-A-Porterâs founder Natalie Massenet has resigned from the online fashion retailer prior to its planned merger with Yook (see the full story here). Following the official merger, YOOK Net-a-Porter Group promoted Alison Loehnis to president of The Net-a-Porter Group. She reports directly to CEO Federico Marchetti. In her new role, Loehnis oversees Net-a-Porter.com, Mr Porter.com, and PORTER magazine (see it here).
Last November, we reported that Massenet has registered a new company called Imaginary Ventures Ltd. The company has been registered in the U.K. Paperwork was filed at Companies House, the official registry of all U.K. businesses (see it here). Sheâs also served as chairman of the British Fashion Council since early September.
In the midst of all of Massenetâs moves, we also reported that the American born could relocate back to the U.S. from London, and end up on CondĂ© Nast short list of candidates to one day become Anna Wintourâs successors at American Vogue (see it here). However, we could now confirm that it won’t happen. A Vogue spokeswoman emphasized that fact, saying, âThere is absolutely no truth to this rumor.â
Massenet‘s 12-month non-compete agreement is up, she is said to be working on several new projects, which are still under wraps.
According to WWD, “She hasnât provided details on her new venture, apart from offering at the time: ‘My entrepreneurial drive is as strong today as it always has been and my passion for innovation will continue to be my greatest guide in business.'”
Massenet, who declined to provide detail on upcoming projects, echoed the Vogue statement, with slightly more color.
âThere is no truth,â to the rumors, Massenet told WWD. âIt would be an understatement to say the job is well and truly occupied. Anna is doing a marvelous job, and I donât think she is going anywhere.â
Massenet began her career at Womenâs Wear Daily and worked as Isabella Blowâs assistant at Tatler. She founded Net-A-Porter in 2000 in London, and launched the site in her Chelsea home. She leaves with more than 100 million pounds ($153 million) after selling shares in Net-A-Porter, according to their source.
Photos Credit: AP
Source: WWD