Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s chief of staff Josh Kettler resigns after only 3 months, here’s why

Josh Kettler, a seasoned public relations expert, was brought on board to assist Prince Harry with his public role and global initiatives
PUBLISHED AUG 18, 2024
Josh Kettler was the chief of staff of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (Getty Images)
Josh Kettler was the chief of staff of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have once again found themselves in the spotlight, but this time, it’s not for a charitable endeavor or a high-profile appearance.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s newly appointed chief of staff, Josh Kettler, has abruptly left his position just three months into the job, as reported by the New York Post.

Kettler, a seasoned public relations expert, was hired on a trial basis to help guide Harry through his next phase. However, it appears that the fit wasn’t quite right for either party, leading to his swift departure.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's chief of staff Josh Kettler quits 3 months into job

Kettler's exit, reportedly mutual, comes at a critical time for the Sussexes, who have been navigating their lives outside of the British royal family with both successes and challenges.

The decision to part ways with Kettler raises questions about the internal dynamics within the Sussexes’ team and the pressures that come with working for one of the world’s most scrutinized couples.

Kettler's hiring was seen as a strategic move by the Sussexes as they continued to establish their brand and philanthropic efforts on a global stage.

With a background in public relations and experience working with high-profile clients, Kettler was brought on board to help steer Harry through the next phase of his public life.

His role was particularly significant as it coincided with the couple’s increasing involvement in global initiatives, such as their recent trip to Nigeria and their ongoing anti-online bullying campaign.

During his brief tenure, Kettler was tasked with guiding the Duke of Sussex through various high-stakes engagements, including a trip to London in May to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex attend the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 at Merkur Spiel-Arena on September 16, 2023 in Duesseldorf, Germany. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images for the Invictus Games Foundation)
Josh Kettler's hiring was seen as a strategic move by the Sussexes as they continued to establish their brand (Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

The games, founded by Harry, are a testament to his commitment to supporting wounded, injured, and sick military service members through sport.

Kettler's involvement in such a pivotal event highlighted the importance of his role within the Sussexes' team. However, despite the high expectations, it appears that both Kettler and the Sussexes quickly realized that the partnership wasn’t working as intended.

Sources close to the situation revealed that Kettler was hired on a trial basis, and the decision to part ways was mutual.

"Hired on a trial basis, the decision to part ways was mutual, with both sides agreeing it wasn’t the right fit," a source told People.

This sentiment was echoed by those familiar with the inner workings of the Sussexes’ team, who suggested that the role may have been more challenging than anticipated.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Josh Kettler, Chief of Staff for Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex arrives at The Invictus Games Foundation 10th Anniversary Service at St Paul's Cathedral on May 08, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation)
Josh Kettler quit his job (Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Reason behind Josh Kettler’s departure sparks reactions online

As news of the reason behind Josh Kettler’s departure spread, the internet was quick to react.

One user remarked, "It's fairly easy to guess what the problem is. The pair keep hiring top of the line public relations and senior staff but then they (probably Markle) don't listen to what the latest expert has to say. And when the results of a 'project' or trip or meeting are poor, Markle screams at them. It's estimated that 18-20 employees have left since the pair departed the UK"

Another said, "Neither Harry nor Me-ghan have ever worked in the corporate side - and that's what this individual brought to their world. However, when there are two self-centered individuals who truly believe the sun revolves around them, it must be hard to provide any concrete help and professional advice. He was smart to move on."

Another wrote, "Judging by the track-record of these two, I am beginning to think that resigning their positions as working royals and leaving Great Britain for North America was a 'mutual decision' strongly recommended and encouraged by the Monarchy."

A user stated, "H and M must be a nightmare to work for because they think they’re relevant but they’re not… yet want to be treated as if they are. How exhausting that must be for any employee."

Another added, "They were screaming about all the invasion of their privacy but hire a professional to arrange for it. They are losing the A listers, dropping off ike flies and they do nothing worthwhile with their lives or what's left of their status."

A comment read, "She hires high priced PR teams/advisors and refuses to listen to them because in the end she thinks she knows best."

Someone else remarked, "Constant chaos and drama of their own making. The trail is barreling down the tracks, eventually, it will crash. May be sooner rather than later."

One individual said, "What does a married couple living in LA, with absolutely zero ties anymore to the Royal Family in London, need a Chief of Staff for? Seems to me a huge waste of money."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.

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