Anna van Praagh: The Visionary Chief Content Officer Transforming The Standard
Who is Anna van Praagh?
Anna van Praagh is a prominent British journalist, editor, and media executive who has risen to become one of the most influential figures in the UK’s publishing landscape. As the Chief Content Officer and Columnist at The London Standard (formerly the Evening Standard), she has played a crucial role in steering the paper’s transformation into a modern, multi-platform media powerhouse. Known for her sharp editorial instincts, her ability to read cultural trends, and her deep understanding of digital growth, Anna van Praagh stands out as one of the most respected voices in British journalism today.
Early Life, Education, and Background
Born in November 1978, Anna van Praagh is currently 47 years old (as of 2025). She was educated at the prestigious Wycombe Abbey School before earning a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from University College London (UCL). Her background in literature helped shape her nuanced approach to writing and storytelling, blending creativity with a clear editorial vision.
Even during her early career, Anna demonstrated a deep fascination with words and an ability to connect with readers. Her education at UCL laid the foundation for her future success in media, where critical thinking and communication became her most powerful tools.
Career Journey: From Print to Digital Leadership
The Early Years
Anna van Praagh began her journalism career in the early 2000s, cutting her teeth as a Commissioning Editor and Writer at The Mail on Sunday. During this period, she gained extensive experience in managing features, commissioning writers, and shaping content that appealed to wide audiences. Her skill in crafting engaging stories quickly made her a standout figure in the competitive world of print journalism.
She then spent several years working for The Telegraph, where she held roles such as Freelance Features Editor and later Features Editor for Stella Magazine. Her eye for detail and understanding of popular culture made her an essential voice in lifestyle and features journalism.
At the Daily Mail – Assistant Editor, Femail
Between 2010 and 2014, Anna van Praagh worked as Assistant Editor for Femail at the Daily Mail, one of the UK’s most-read newspapers. Here, she was responsible for developing hard-hitting investigations, feature pieces, and high-traffic online stories. She managed columns, collaborated with renowned writers, and consistently ensured that her content led the charge on the website’s most-read lists.
Her time at the Daily Mail showcased her ability to balance journalistic depth with digital virality — a skill that would later define her leadership at The Standard.
Deputy Editor of ES Magazine
In 2015, Anna joined the Evening Standard’s ES Magazine as Deputy Editor, a role she held until 2020. During these five years, she oversaw the magazine’s editorial strategy, guided feature development, and nurtured the publication’s distinct voice — one that balanced elegance with contemporary relevance. Under her direction, ES Magazine became known for its intelligent, stylish coverage of London life, fashion, and culture.
Chief Content Officer at The Standard
In August 2020, Anna van Praagh was appointed Chief Content Officer of The Standard. Her leadership came at a critical time — the global pandemic had reshaped how people consumed media. Anna’s digital-first strategy helped reposition The Standard from a traditional newspaper into a dynamic multimedia brand.
As Chief Content Officer, Anna leads the editorial and digital teams, oversees the print edition, and implements strategies to attract high traffic, retain readers, and maximise engagement. She is known for her commitment to multi-platform content creation, ensuring that The Standard’s voice resonates across print, online, social media, and emerging digital formats.
Her philosophy is rooted in quality, authenticity, and innovation. She has been instrumental in producing “agenda-setting premium multi-platform content” — a hallmark of her tenure. Her editorial leadership not only strengthened the brand but also ensured its relevance in a rapidly changing media ecosystem.
Anna van Praagh at the Evening Standard
Anna van Praagh’s Evening Standard tenure represents one of the most significant editorial success stories in recent UK media. With more than a decade at the publication, she has shaped its direction, tone, and audience growth strategy. Her vision focuses on engagement and monetisation, helping transform The Standard into a brand that thrives in both digital and print spheres.
She is also a regular columnist, contributing opinion pieces on culture, society, and everyday life in London. Her writing style is reflective, witty, and deeply human — connecting with readers through relatable insights and social observations.
Anna van Praagh’s Role Beyond Journalism
In addition to her media work, Anna van Praagh is a Board Trustee for the World Monuments Fund (WMF) — a leading independent organisation dedicated to protecting the world’s most treasured cultural sites. Her involvement highlights her passion for heritage, culture, and global understanding. She has been part of the WMF board since 2021, helping the organisation advance its mission of safeguarding history for future generations.
Personal Life: Husband and Children
Away from her professional achievements, Anna van Praagh leads a rich family life. She is married to James Muthana, as seen in her verified Instagram account @annavanpraagh, where she occasionally shares glimpses of family moments. The couple have two children — Johnny and Molly.
Her posts often feature family travels, holidays, and milestones, reflecting her belief in balance between a thriving career and personal happiness. From family trips to Sardinia and Zakynthos to cultural outings at the Royal Ballet, her life embodies the blend of creativity and warmth that also shines through her work.
Anna van Praagh on Social Media
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Instagram: Her official account @annavanpraagh has over 13.3K followers and around 900 posts, showcasing a mix of personal and professional content. She shares behind-the-scenes moments from The Standard, family adventures, and snapshots of London life.
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Twitter (X): Her handle @annavanpraagh has approximately 2,800 followers. She joined in 2009 and uses the platform to engage with journalism, culture, and media trends.
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LinkedIn: Her profile lists her as Chief Content Officer and Columnist at The Standard, highlighting her leadership in content strategy and editorial direction.
Her social presence is polished, authentic, and reflective of her standing as a trusted voice in UK media.
Anna van Praagh Wikipedia and Public Recognition
As of 2025, Anna van Praagh does not yet have a dedicated Wikipedia page, although her name appears in multiple media directories and in references related to The Evening Standard. She is, however, listed as Acting Editor in sections of the newspaper’s Wikipedia entry — a testament to her growing influence within the organisation.
Given her career trajectory and prominence, it’s only a matter of time before she receives a full standalone Wikipedia profile recognising her impact on modern British journalism.
Key Strengths and Leadership Style
Anna van Praagh’s reputation rests on her ability to lead teams through challenging transitions, anticipate media trends, and deliver content that resonates. She’s well-connected across the industry, maintaining strong relationships with journalists, PR professionals, influencers, and creatives. Her leadership style is collaborative yet decisive, balancing creativity with business acumen.
Her skill set includes:
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Content strategy and editorial management
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Cross-platform and digital publishing
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Audience retention and monetisation
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Print production and brand storytelling
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Leadership and talent development
FAQs
1. Who is Anna van Praagh?
Anna van Praagh is a British journalist and editor, currently serving as the Chief Content Officer and Columnist at The London Standard (Evening Standard).
2. How old is Anna van Praagh?
She was born in November 1978, which makes her 47 years old as of 2025.
3. Who is Anna van Praagh’s husband?
Her husband is James Muthana, occasionally featured in her public Instagram posts.
4. Does Anna van Praagh have children?
Yes, she has two children — Johnny and Molly, both of whom appear in her family-related social posts.
5. Is there a Wikipedia page for Anna van Praagh?
As of now, there is no standalone Wikipedia page for her, though she is referenced in the Evening Standard’s Wikipedia entry for her editorial role.
Conclusion
Anna van Praagh is more than just an editor — she is a visionary media strategist, a cultural commentator, and a leader redefining British journalism. From her beginnings as a features editor to her current role as Chief Content Officer of The Standard, her journey reflects adaptability, innovation, and excellence.
Her ability to create content that captures the zeitgeist, her commitment to quality journalism, and her passion for storytelling make her one of the most influential figures in contemporary media. Balancing her thriving career with her roles as a wife, mother, and cultural trustee, Anna van Praagh continues to inspire a new generation of journalists and readers alike.
