Ads
An increasing number of high-level staff members have reportedly left Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's foundation, putting the Duchess of Sussex's latest business venture at serious risk according to sources. Over the past year, nearly 20 employees have resigned from key roles within the Archewell organization, an unprecedented level of turnover that draws into question Meghan's ability to retain top talent and effectively manage a start-up enterprise.
Unnamed sources familiar with the situation say that working with Meghan and Harry can be extremely challenging due to their allegedly demanding and pampered nature. "The harsh reality is that Meghan and Harry are very tough bosses to work for. They micro-manage and have very high expectations, which makes it incredibly hard to satisfy them," revealed one source. This type of micro-management and impossible standards has created a toxic work environment, driving capable individuals away.
Ads
The most recent high-ranking departure was chief of staff to the Archewell Foundation, Josh Kite, who abruptly resigned just weeks before Meghan and Harry's planned trip to New York and California last summer. Kite had only held the role for about three months before leaving the position. Rumors indicate his exit was due to clashes with Meghan over her involvement in day-to-day operations and resistance to taking advice.
Meghan's inability to find and keep a long-term CEO has hampered the successful launch and growth of her business and philanthropic ventures according to others close to the situation. Six months after unveiling plans for Archewell, the organization still lacks stable leadership at the top. "It's clear Meghan wants to control every aspect of Archewell herself, but she isn't experienced enough to run a major non-profit single-handedly. She needs to trust others to help guide her," commented one palace aide.
Ads
Former palace employees who endured Meghan's temperament while she was a working royal have even joked about forming a "Sussex Survivors Club" to commiserate. Samantha Cohen, the Queen's assistant private secretary, said she was eager to leave her role with the Sussexes but remained much longer than intended because it took time to hire someone suitable and willing to step into the toxic environment.
The extensive staff turnover during Meghan's brief time as a working royal also raised red flags within Buckingham Palace, according to one high-ranking source. An official investigation was launched in 2018 into allegations Meghan bullied assistants, though she has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. While the results were never publicly released, those privy to the inquiry said the accusations were credible and the Duchess was unwilling to take responsibility for her damaging behavior.
Ads
Sadly, this pattern of poor treatment towards staff and falling outs with friends and family members like her estranged father Thomas Markle appears to have continued since moving to California, according to numerous associates. Beyond accusations of racism within the royal family amid the Oprah interview, reports describe how Meghan cuts people off who are no longer useful to her ambitions.
As Archewell's viability has come into question, Meghan finds herself unable yet again to recruit and keep a competent leader at the organization's helm. Attempts to promote philanthropic initiatives have faltered, from sending homemade gifts to celebrities to announce partnerships that never materialized. Plans for television and podcast deals through Spotify and Netflix have faced repeated delays.
Ads
Some experts argue Meghan's unwillingness to accept advice or compromise her vision for Archewell stems from inexperience in the non-profit world rather than any ill intent. However, if she wants to build a sustainable venture that outlives any fame from her relationship with Prince Harry, she must learn to choose loyal aides wisely and be open to their guidance - qualities those who know her best say do not come naturally. Only time will tell if Meghan can evolve her leadership style and make the changes necessary to properly serve the individuals and causes she claims to support through Archewell.
Post a Comment