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James Holt Steps Down as Archewell Philanthropies Executive Director After Rebrand

Citing a family move to London, Holt will stay on as a senior advisor supporting 2026 humanitarian travel.

Overview

  • The longtime aide, who has led the organization since 2021 after serving as the couple’s communications chief, announced he will leave the executive director post as he relocates to London.
  • Harry and Meghan said Holt will continue as a senior philanthropic advisor to them and Archewell Philanthropies, including supporting planned overseas humanitarian trips in 2026.
  • The change comes weeks after the charity rebranded from Archewell Foundation and began shifting to a fiscal-sponsorship model that moves compliance and grant administration to an external nonprofit.
  • Recent staffing changes include reported redundancies tied to the new operating model and the exit of chief communications officer Meredith Maines after roughly 10 months.
  • Media attention has centered on reported 2024 filings citing $5.1 million in expenses, $2.1 million in donations and $1.25 million in grants, along with Holt’s reported $245,000 salary.