Dicketts had been working a freelance consultant, specialising in brand identity and new business.
At JWT she headed upt the agency's specialist communications agency Label, which focused on fashion, beauty and luxury brands. She left by mutual agreement in March 2004 and was replaced by JWT board account director, Kate Harper.
Sue Douglas, president of new business at Conde Nast Contract Publishing, said: "Nicola is a new business genius. Her agency track record generating new clients is perfect for us."
"Combine that with strong commercial instincts and great communication skills and we hope to be an invincible team."
The division produces magazines and catalogues for clients including House of Fraser, Littlewoods, Mandarin Oriental, Maybourne and Post Office. It lost its Harrods account last month to rival River Publishing.
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