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He numbers model Cara Delevingne among his goddaughters, splits his time between a £6 million Chelsea house and country residence in Worcestershire, and was delighted to be knighted by King Charles this year.
But only now, at 66, has 'King of the Glossies' Sir Nicholas Coleridge — who spent decades at Condé Nast, overseeing the fortunes of Tatler, Vogue and an empire of magazines — grabbed the prize which, some say, was closest to his heart.
He is, I can disclose, to become Provost of Eton, whose alumni include Princes William and Harry, a brace of living Prime Ministers and 18 dead ones, as well as generations of Sir Nicholas's own family.
The position of Provost, held by ex-Cabinet Minister Lord Waldegrave who steps down next year, is roughly the equivalent to head of governors at less celebrated establishments.
In practice, it's far more significant, with responsibility for 'the good government' of Eton, founded in 1440, where fees are £50,000 a year.
'King of the Glossies' Sir Nicholas Coleridge — who numbers model Cara Delevingne among his goddaughters — to become Provost of Eton. He and Cara are pictured together at the British Fashion Awards dinner in London in 2012
Sir Nicholas Coleridge (pictured in February) splits his time between a £6 million Chelsea house and country residence in Worcestershire, and was delighted to be knighted by King Charles this year
Under Waldegrave, Provost since 2009, the role has grown in scope, with some sensing it now eclipses that of the Head Master, Simon Henderson — the youngest ever Eton head when appointed in 2015 aged 39.
Now known as 'Trendy Hendy' because of his 'woke' views, he sacked a popular master, Will Knowland, in controversial circumstances three years ago.
Sir Nicholas, rarely lost for words, declines to discuss his triumph.
'The official announcement is next month,' says my Eton mole, reflecting that Coleridge is 'a master tactician' who, after leaving the world of glossies, became V&A chairman, 'then masterminded the Queen's Jubilee Pageant and got the coveted knighthood'.
Coleridge, he adds, will make the most of The Provost's Lodge, a crenellated house with a panelled dining room.
'It's magnificent. He'll shift the epicentre of London's beau monde to Eton.'
