Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's nonprofit organization, Archewell, has suffered another blow with the recent departure of Christine Schirmer, a senior advisor who had been with the organization since its inception in 2020. Schirmer, who originally joined as the communications director before transitioning to her advisory role in 2021, is set to join the Brunswick Group, a prominent public relations firm.
Schirmer's exit marks a continuation of a troubling trend for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have experienced significant staffing turnover since their marriage in 2018. According to sources, Archewell has seen the departure of at least 18 staff members, with nine or more leaving after the couple relocated to the United States in 2020. This latest departure is indicative of ongoing challenges within the Sussexes' team.
Earlier this month, Josh Kettler, the couple's Chief of Staff, also left his position just three months into his tenure. Kettler had been brought on board to help Prince Harry navigate his "next phase," including a high-profile trip to the UK in May. Reports initially suggested Kettler's departure was a resignation, but a U.S. publication close to the couple clarified that it was a mutual decision. Both sides agreed that Kettler was not the right fit following a trial period.
The high turnover rate among the Sussexes' staff has been a topic of significant discussion. One former employee, speaking to The Daily Mail, noted the pervasive dissatisfaction among former and current staff. "What may be most telling is that the entire time I worked there, I don't think I heard a single current or former employee on their staff say they would take the job again if given the chance," the source remarked.
This sentiment highlights broader issues within the organization. Many of those who have left were experienced professionals accustomed to demanding environments. Their departures suggest that working with the Sussexes may come with unique challenges that are not conducive to long-term job satisfaction.
Adding to the complications, Meghan Markle is currently struggling to find a CEO for her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. Launched earlier this year, the brand has yet to release any products. Sources close to the situation have suggested that Meghan's demanding management style might be a factor in the difficulty of finding suitable candidates. "The brutal reality is Harry and Meghan are the toughest of taskmasters; they are very demanding and difficult to work for, and that puts a lot of people's backs up," a source told Closer.
The couple's recent staffing issues underscore a broader pattern of instability within their ventures. Despite their high profile and significant resources, maintaining a stable team has proven challenging. This ongoing turnover could impact both Archewell and Meghan's brand, potentially hindering their effectiveness and public perception.
The Sussexes have not responded to this report. The departure of Schirmer, coupled with the struggle to staff key positions, highlights the ongoing difficulties facing Meghan and Harry as they navigate their post-royal careers.
