A senior adviser to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has announced his departure from their US-based organisation to relocate his family to the United Kingdom.
Key Figure Departs After Nearly Five Years
James Holt, who served as the executive director of Harry and Meghan's charitable organisation, the Archewell Foundation, for almost five years, confirmed his exit in a statement released on Monday. His association with the couple spans close to a decade, having also acted as their head of communications from September 2019 until March 2021.
In his farewell remarks, Holt reflected on his lengthy collaboration with the Sussexes. He highlighted initial work with Prince Harry eight years ago, focused on improving mental health support for British military personnel, and more recent efforts to aid injured children in Gaza. He described the Duchess as a "kindred spirit" who connects authentically with people.
"Above everything else, the work we've done together to support families affected by online harm will remain the most meaningful of my professional life," Holt stated. He confirmed that after five years in Los Angeles, it was time for his young family to return to London.
Transition to a New Advisory Role
The Archewell Foundation is currently undergoing a rebranding to become Archewell Philanthropies. Despite stepping down from his executive position, a spokesman for Harry and Meghan confirmed that Holt will maintain a connection to their work.
He is set to remain a senior philanthropic adviser, specifically supporting the couple's overseas humanitarian trips planned for 2026. The Duke and Duchess praised Holt as a "stellar support" whose "enthusiasm and talent" in overseeing their philanthropic endeavours had been extraordinary.
"When I pass the baton to the team leading Archewell Philanthropies in the coming months, I'll do so with immense pride and optimism for what lies ahead," Holt added, expressing gratitude to Harry and Meghan.
Recent Leadership Changes for the Sussexes
This significant staff change follows swiftly on the heels of another departure from the couple's communications team. Just two days prior, Meredith Maines, the chief communications officer for the Duke and Duchess, announced she would be stepping down after less than a year in the role to pursue a new opportunity in 2026.
The back-to-back announcements mark a period of transition for the Sussexes' operational team as they continue to develop their philanthropic and commercial activities under the new Archewell Philanthropies structure.
