Prince Harry’s latest chief of staff, Josh Kettler, has reportedly stepped down from his role after just three months, raising questions as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex prepare for their upcoming tour of Colombia.
Kettler, a seasoned public relations professional, joined Harry’s team shortly before the royal couple embarked on a three-day trip to Nigeria in May. His role was seen as pivotal, especially as Harry navigated his next phase of public life. Kettler was also spotted with Harry during a significant visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, where the Duke attended a 10th-anniversary service for the Invictus Games.
However, Kettler’s tenure has been unexpectedly short-lived. According to reports from PEOPLE magazine, Kettler’s departure was a mutual decision, with both sides agreeing that the role was “not the right fit.” Initially hired on a trial basis, Kettler was based in Santa Barbara, close to the Sussexes’ Montecito home, and had previously held prominent positions at Cognixion, a communication platform, and outdoor clothing brand Patagonia.
This departure adds to the growing list of employees who have exited the Sussexes’ team since the couple relocated to California. In total, Harry and Meghan have seen nine staff members leave their employ. A former staffer, speaking to the publication, remarked on the high turnover: “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.”
Kettler’s resignation comes just ahead of Harry and Meghan’s scheduled “royal-style” tour of Colombia. The couple was invited by Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Márquez, to visit the country and engage with local communities. Their itinerary includes visits to the capital, Bogotá, as well as the coastal regions of Cartagena and Cali. The tour is expected to focus on interacting with leaders, youth, and women who represent Colombia’s drive towards progress.
In a statement, Vice President Márquez emphasized the significance of the visit: “During their trip, the duke and duchess will join me in visiting Bogotá, as well as the Caribbean and Pacific regions of Cartagena and Cali. In these vibrant locations, they will have the exceptional opportunity to engage with leaders, youth, and women who embody the aspirations and voices of Colombians committed to progress. In addition to these meaningful interactions, the duke and duchess will experience the rich heritage of Colombia.”
The upcoming tour will mark the Sussexes’ second official trip of the year, following their visit to Nigeria in May, where they participated in various activities over three days.
As Harry and Meghan prepare to embark on their Colombia tour, questions remain about the future of their team, particularly in light of Kettler’s sudden departure. The Mirror has reached out to Harry’s representatives for comment on the situation.
