Off the Cuff: A Q&A with Condé Nast’s Elizabeth Herbst-Brady

January 9, 2026

Elizabeth Herbst-Brady is CRO of Condé Nast

“Off the Cuff” is a Q&A series from Luxury Daily exploring the career paths, current projects and next steps of those shaping the world’s best luxury brands.

The interviews feature a Proust-style twist, allowing readers to get to know industry leaders on a personal level. This edition features Elizabeth Herbst-Brady, chief revenue officer for publishing house Condé Nast.

In this Q&A, Ms. Herbst-Brady discusses trust and teamwork, creating meaningful experiences and the joy of sharing stories.

Here is the dialogue:

What was your first job ever? What did it teach you?

My first job was as a lifeguard at a local pool. The experience taught me the real importance of teamwork, as we were each responsible for our own part of the water, ensuring everyone was safe.

The environment was unpredictable and full of distractions, so communication and trust were everything. Whether it was one swimmer or 25, everything demanded attention. We knew we could rely on each other when things got chaotic.

Which skills have been critical to your success? Did you gain these skills within or outside of the workplace?

About 15 years ago, I was asked this question by my colleague. It forced me to reflect on what had worked for me and, based on that, I determined a framework of: stay curious, be accountable, practice gratitude.

Being curious means that you ask why, with the goal to understand the underlying meaning. When you’re accountable, you own and learn from your mistakes and are responsible for your goals. And when you’re grateful, there is no challenge that is insurmountable.

Over the years, I’ve also recognized the importance of resilience. Setbacks are inevitable. The ability to get back up, learn something useful and move forward is what creates long-term success.

Finally, I would add “assume positive intent.” As expectations increase, we sometimes miss the subtle notes of context. We send a quick email or Slack instead of having a conversation, as we want to keep everything moving. When I am the recipient of one of these communications, I try to take a moment to assume positive intent. I can feel it shift my response from aggressive to curious. Just that change can make all the difference to finding a successful resolution.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Early in my career, a manager told me, “You have two ears and one mouth, which means listen twice as much as you talk.”

I’ve added my own spin to that over the years: That how people feel after they speak with you is more important than the words you say.

Both ideas influence the way I communicate today. I always try to take the time, listen fully and make sure people leave a conversation feeling valued.

How has your field changed since you started out in luxury, and what do you think your industry will look like in a decade?

I only recently joined the luxury industry. But my previous roles in marketing, media and technology have taught me a consistent truth: What’s truly premium is always rooted in trust.

Over the last decade, the way marketers think about building trust has changed dramatically. Not long ago, we were all chasing scale or engagement.

But, especially for luxury, success now means telling a clear story, creating moments that authentically lead to sales and moving with greater speed and agility. Credibility is key. My recent conversations with luxury leaders make me optimistic there’s real momentum to tackle this together.

What recent projects have ignited your passion for working in luxury?

A recent highlight was Vogue World: Hollywood. It reminded me of the power luxury has to create a sense of wonder. Luxury at its best leaves you energized, curious and connected to culture in a deeper way.

Moments like Vogue World are not just about a show or a spectacle, they are about how people feel when they are part of something rare. Being able to bring that experience to life is exactly why I’m passionate about working in this industry.

Who, in any industry or sphere, would you most like to share a long lunch with and where would you take them?

I am inspired every day by our extraordinary editors. I would happily spend time with any one of them, listening and learning from the way they see the world.

If I could plan the perfect lunch, it would be right here in New York, gathered around a table with our editors to celebrate the work they do every day to inform, challenge and inspire our audiences across the globe.

How do you get into the right mindset before a big meeting or presentation?

Preparation is the foundation; I always make sure I’m grounded in the details and clear on what I want my audience to walk away with.

And right before I speak to a big crowd, I eat a banana. Years ago someone told me that the niacin in bananas calms your nerves. I don’t know if that’s true, but it’s stuck with me ever since.

On your days off, what can you be found doing to relax or have some fun?

I like to exercise, I love to walk. I live in New York City so I can walk everywhere.

I also love to bake! Cakes and cookies are my specialty, and there’s something relaxing about creating something from scratch and sharing it with people you care about.

I’m very lucky that my adult children live here too, and after so many years in this city, I have a wonderful circle of friends. Spending time with loved ones is always the best way to relax.

I have a number of organizations I’m passionate about, including the Gilder Lerman Institute of American History, where I’m on the board.

What does luxury mean to you?

Luxury to me is that which is enduring. It is not defined by access or price, but by exceptional quality and the feeling that something has been created with care and craft, with a story to tell.

Whether a product or service/experience, what is your favorite luxury indulgence?

One of my favorite luxuries is time spent at the theater with my family and friends. There’s something magical about a shared experience that only happens once, live, right in front of you. The most recent show I saw was Just in Time starring Jonathan Groff as Bobby Darin.

It was a reminder of how much joy comes from being swept up in a great story together.

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