Ever since stepping back from their senior royal roles in 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been carving out a new path for themselves.
Now, they’re taking a big step by creating a household that closely mirrors the traditional royal setup, designed to support their growing public and business lives in both California and the UK.
Meredith Maines Leads the New Household with a Strong Team
At the center of this new structure is Meredith Kendall Maines, a communications pro with experience that has drawn comparisons to some of the monarchy’s top aides.
She’s leading a team of 11 staff members, based partly in Montecito, California, and partly in the UK.
This operation is separate from their well-known philanthropic foundation, Archewell, allowing them to keep their business and charitable efforts distinct.
Separate Chiefs of Staff for Harry and Meghan Reflect Their Individual Paths
Part of this overhaul includes each of them having their own chief of staff.
For Harry, this marks a fresh start as he prepares to launch a new commercial venture in the coming months — details of which are still under wraps.
Meghan’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, is also gearing up for growth with new products expected later this year.
Harry Seeks to Turn the Page on Negative Press and Legal Battles
The Duke, now 40, has reportedly grown tired of the ongoing negative headlines, especially in the UK, where he’s been involved in several legal battles around his privacy and security.
Both Harry and Meghan, who recently marked their seventh wedding anniversary, are said to be focused on rehabilitating their public image after a series of setbacks in popularity polls.
The Household Aims to Bring Stability and a Clear Message
Sources close to the couple reveal that the new household will provide the kind of structured, streamlined support they’ve lacked since leaving the royal family.
The goal is to better manage their public narrative and build their business and philanthropic ventures with professionalism and care.
There’s even a hint of humility from Harry, acknowledging it’s time to reshape how he engages with the public.
Commercial Ventures and Ongoing Charity Work Are Key Priorities
One of the household’s first big jobs will be to launch Harry’s new commercial project, helping him find renewed purpose beyond his previous charity work in Africa, which ended amid controversy.
Though Harry will keep prioritizing the Invictus Games Foundation, he’s eager to explore his own business ideas.
Meanwhile, Meghan’s lifestyle brand As Ever is preparing to expand, adding to its popular jams and teas.
Trusted Chiefs of Staff Bring Experience and Political Savvy
Miranda Barbot, a seasoned political adviser who helped with Barack Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign, will focus exclusively on Harry.
She’s already proven her worth managing high-profile trips, like the Sussexes’ well-received visit to Nigeria last year.
For Meghan, Sarah Fosmo, who previously worked for Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates, has joined to guide the duchess through this exciting growth phase.
Key Figures Oversee Media and Communications in Both the UK and US
The UK side of the operation includes Liam Maguire, a Sandhurst graduate like Harry, who will handle the prince’s media relations in Britain.
Working alongside him is Charlie Gipson, the Sussexes’ longtime UK press officer.
Across the Atlantic, Kyle Boulia, formerly with Hollywood’s United Talent Agency, transitioned to supporting the new Sussex household’s communications exclusively.
New Hires from Silicon Valley Bring Marketing Expertise to the Household
The Sussexes have also recruited three staffers from Method Communications, a Silicon Valley agency known for helping challenger brands, to bridge the household and Meghan’s As Ever brand.
Melissa Kalimov, a branding specialist formerly with a trendy New York coffee brand, now leads As Ever and is tackling supply chain challenges after the debut product line sold out almost instantly.
Growth and New Projects Are on the Horizon for the Sussex Household
With plans for new shows, products, and public appearances in the works, the couple is clearly preparing for a busy and ambitious future.
Meghan’s Netflix series With Love, Meghan has done well, and more content and collaborations with the streaming giant are expected.
New Structure Hopes to Stop High Staff Turnover and Build Stability
One insider mentioned that this new household setup will address criticism about the Sussexes’ history of frequent staff changes.
Like the royal household, the Sussex operation will have clearly defined roles, offering more stability while still allowing for natural turnover.
Official Statement Confirms Ongoing Support for Growing Ventures
A spokesperson for the couple confirmed that Method Communications will continue supporting their expanding business and charitable efforts, under the leadership of chief communications officer Meredith Maines, reinforcing that this household is set up to serve the couple’s evolving needs.