Archewell Foundation Loses Key Member Amid Ongoing Staff Turnover
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have faced another setback with the departure of Christine Schirmer, a senior advisor at their Archewell Foundation. Schirmer, who joined as communications director in 2020 when the organization was founded, later transitioned to a senior advisor role in 2021. She is now moving on to a new position at the public relations firm Brunswick Group.
Since their marriage in 2018, the Sussexes have reportedly lost at least 18 staff members, with nine or more leaving after the couple relocated to the U.S. in 2020. Earlier this month, Josh Kettler, who served as their Chief of Staff, also left after just three months in the role. While initial reports suggested Kettler had quit, sources close to the couple clarified that his departure was a mutual decision after both parties agreed he wasn’t the right fit.
The Sussexes have struggled with retaining staff since moving across the pond. A former employee noted, "What may be most telling is that during my time there, I don't think I heard a single current or former staff member say they would take the job again if given the chance."
The couple is also still searching for a CEO to lead Meghan's lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which launched earlier this year but has yet to release any products. Sources suggest that the difficulty in filling this role may be due to the couple's demanding management style, which has made it challenging to keep staff onboard.
As Meghan and Harry continue their ventures, the ongoing staff departures underscore the challenges they face in maintaining a stable team.
