Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing another high-profile departure from their organization.
James Holt, executive director of Archewell Foundation—recently rebranded as Archewell Philanthropies—announced his exit after four years with the couple.
His departure marks the latest in a series of staffing changes that have raised eyebrows about the stability of the Sussexes’ charitable operations.
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A Graceful Exit After Five Years in LA
Holt shared news of his departure in a statement given to People on Monday, December 29. His message emphasized family priorities over professional ambitions.
After five incredible years in Los Angeles, it’s time for my family to return to London.
The executive director, who has led Archewell Foundation since 2021, expressed confidence in the organization’s future trajectory.
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 didn’t hold back his appreciation for the royal couple who employed him.
I’ll miss my colleagues deeply, and I’m grateful to Harry and Meghan for everything they’ve done — for me, and for the countless people we’ve worked to support.
Harry and Meghan Respond With Praise
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex offered their own statement about Holt’s departure. Their words painted a picture of mutual respect and continued collaboration.
His enthusiasm and talent in overseeing our philanthropic endeavours have been extraordinary.
But here’s where things get interesting. Holt isn’t completely cutting ties with Archewell.
According to the couple, he will continue guiding humanitarian trips for them overseas through Archewell Philanthropies as his young family settles back in the UK.
A spokesperson for Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44, clarified Holt’s ongoing role to People.
James Holt will remain a senior philanthropic advisor for the couple and Archewell Philanthropies, supporting their humanitarian trips overseas in 2026.
Holt’s Deep History With the Sussexes
Before taking the helm at Archewell, Holt served as Head of Engagement and Communications for Harry and Meghan from 2019 to 2021. That means he was with them during some of their most turbulent years.
He witnessed their exit from royal duties, their explosive Oprah interview, and the birth of their second child, Lilibet. His institutional knowledge of the couple’s brand and mission runs deep.
A Pattern of Departures
Holt’s announcement arrives just days after another significant exit. Meredith Maines, the couple’s chief communications officer, stepped down after less than a year in the position.
That’s barely enough time to unpack office supplies, let alone implement a comprehensive communications strategy.
The timing raises questions about workplace culture and organizational stability at Archewell.
Conflicting Reports About Staffing Changes
The situation gets murkier when examining recent reports about Archewell’s restructuring. The Daily Mail published an article on Sunday, December 21, claiming three staffers had been let go as the charity underwent major changes.
A spokesperson for Harry and Meghan initially denied these changes, insisting to the outlet that the same full team remained in place.
But just one day later, a different tune emerged. In a statement to People, a spokesperson acknowledged that staff reductions were indeed happening.
The move toward a fiscal sponsor operating model does mean that some staff redundancies are inevitable, particularly with junior admin roles.
The contradiction between these statements—issued within 24 hours of each other—doesn’t exactly inspire confidence in Archewell’s messaging.
What Is a Fiscal Sponsor Operating Model?
Understanding Archewell’s restructuring requires grasping what a fiscal sponsor model actually means. This approach allows organizations to operate under an established nonprofit’s umbrella rather than maintaining full independent status.
Key advantages include:
- Reduced administrative overhead
- Simplified tax compliance
- Lower operational costs
- Faster program implementation
However, this model typically requires fewer staff members, which explains the “inevitable redundancies” mentioned by the Sussexes’ spokesperson.
A History of Staff Turnover
Harry and Meghan have faced persistent criticism about their treatment of staff members. Multiple reports over the years have suggested a revolving door of employees at various levels of their organization.
Previous reporting indicated the charity had cut staff by approximately 60 percent, reducing headcount to just two employees before recent changes.
These numbers paint a stark picture of an organization in flux, constantly adjusting its structure and personnel.
What This Means for Archewell’s Future
Despite the leadership changes, Harry and Meghan appear committed to continuing their philanthropic work. Holt’s retention as an advisor suggests they value continuity even as operational models shift.
The couple has maintained that their humanitarian mission remains unchanged. Overseas trips and charitable initiatives will continue, albeit with a leaner operational structure.
Whether this streamlined approach proves more effective—or simply reflects budget constraints—remains to be seen. The coming months will reveal whether Archewell emerges stronger from this transition or continues facing questions about its stability.
For now, James Holt prepares to relocate his family across the Atlantic while maintaining ties to the organization he helped build. His departure closes one chapter while opening another in Archewell’s evolving story.