Condé Nast promotes Fran Tirado to editor-in-chief of Them

Fran Tirado

Condé Nast has named Fran Tirado as editor-in-chief of Them. In this new role, she will be responsible for overseeing editorial vision, content creation and brand strategies across digital, video and social platforms. Tirado has been the executive editor of Them since 2024 and began her new role March 10. 

From in-depth storytelling on the fight for LGBTQ+ rights to intimate profiles of queer cultural vanguards, Them covers culture, entertainment, politics and news through the lens of the LGBTQ+ community. Powered by a diverse team of journalists, editors, artists and creatives, Them brings an original, distinct perspective to queer stories.

Anna Wintour, Condé Nast chief content officer and global editorial director, Vogue, said:  “I’m thrilled Fran Tirado will be leading Them. She’s already become a key leader on the team and her editorial experience, her cultural understanding, commitment to advocacy and her sense of humor are the qualities that Them thrives on. I look forward to working with her in her new role as editor-in-chief.”

Tirado said: “Them’s brand strikes the perfect balance between politics and pleasure — and anyone familiar with my work knows that’s also my whole aesthetic. As I’ve watched the LGBTQ+ mediascape change drastically in recent years, Them always stays ahead of the curve with adaptability, social media prowess and integrity. At a pivotal time, I can’t imagine an editorial team better equipped. Working with them, and Anna, is an honor.”

Tirado is a podcaster, creative director and editor with over 15 years of experience working in LGBTQ+ media and marketing. Prior to joining Them, she has led editorial teams at Gay Times, Netflix, Out and Hello Mr., and worked with brands including Nike, HBO, Google, Apple, Meta, iHeart and ViiV Healthcare on their marketing campaigns and initiatives.

Tirado is the founder of the annual Fire Island fundraiser Doll Invasion supporting trans creatives and initiatives. Her leadership has won her the Stonewall Vision Award and MTV's inaugural Logo Legends honor. Her editorial leadership at Hello Mr. won her Brooklyn's 30 Under 30 and her work honoring the life of Cecilia Gentili was nominated for a GLAAD award in Outstanding Online Journalism.