Bauer Media has appointed celebrated journalist Sharri Markson as editor of its iconic young women’s magazine, Cleo.

Markson, TV reporter and daughter of celebrity publicist Max Markson, replaces Gemma Crisp who is relocating to London.

She comes to the role from the Seven Network where she was Sydney news editor in 2011 – a position which saw her win a Walkley award last month in the TV news reporting category.

Prior to TV reporting Markson was state political reporter for the Sunday Telegraph, Canberra correspondent and chief of staff – the youngest in that newspaper’s history.

During her time at News Limited, she was twice named Young Journalist of the Year (2004 and 2006), honours which earned her stints on The Sun in London and the New York Post.

Her appointment was met with praise from a cross section of high-powered media personalities yesterday, with former Cleo editor, Mia Freedman, Tweeting: “What a smart, refreshing choice for Cleo editor. Congratulations @SharriMarkson. A fresh approach is long overdue.”

Professor Kerryn Phelps, public health commentator and currently the health writer for the Australian Women's Weekly also Tweeted: “A new era for #Cleo magazine with Walkley award winner@sharrimarkson as editor. Perfect choice. Congratulations Sharri”

Publishing director Gerry Reynolds said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have one of Australia’s brightest young journalists taking the reins of one of our most important brands. We have no doubt Sharri will bring considerable depth to the role.”

Markson said: “I’m so honoured and excited to take on this role. I’ve always loved Cleo and, like every other young woman in Australia, grew up reading this iconic magazine.

“I’ll work my hardest to deliver a fun, exciting and refreshing magazine for today’s young women.”

Markson will officially take the reins in January.