Although a good-bye memo to staff seemed to suggest that Kaplan is leaving the weekly magazine on good terms, we have heard that she was asked to leave. The change at the top of the masthead comes after Parade‘s owner Condé Nast appointed a new CEO, Jack Haire, back in April. Since then, the magazine has lost its president, Randy Siegel, who left to run local digital strategy for parent company Advance Publications last month and got a new publisher, Brett Wilson this fall.

Kaplan, an author and former deputy editor at TV Guide magazine, joined Parade four years ago as executive editor and took over the role of editor-in-chief two years ago.

In her letter to her staff, Kaplan praised Parade‘s growth in the years since she’s been in charge, highlighting its celebrity coverage, increase medical coverage, and high profile guest writers. She also talked about the magazine’s expansion into other platforms, including TV and the Web. “Leaving now, I extend my warm thanks to everyone who contributed to our many triumphs,” she said, adding: “I’m disappointed not to have the opportunity to continue this great run. But I wish all of you — and Parade — continued success.”

Read all of Kaplan’s note, after the jump

We have reached out to Parade for comment but have not yet heard back. We’ll keep you posted as the story develops.

Previously: Parade Names New Publisher

continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

Flay’s column, “Cook It!” will premiere with a Superbowl-themed piece and will launch the appearance of all of Flay’s recipes on Parade.com. Says Parade editor Janice Kaplan, “It’s fun to work with him, and we’re delighted to have him on our team.”

Press release after the jump.

continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.