Meet Jason Knauf: Ex-Royal Assistant Behind Meghan Markle-Bullying Claims, the name Prince William-Led Earthshot CEO | Today news

Jason Knauf, a former senior assistant for both Prince William and Prince Harry and their wives, has been appointed as the new CEO of the Earthshot Prize, Prince William’s ambitious environmental initiative. The announcement came on April 17, with Knauf immediately entering the role and succeeding Hannah Jones who will leave the summer after four years leading the organization. Prince William praised Jones’ achievements and expressed his eagerness to work with Knauf to lead the price through the next phase of growth and impact. Knauf’s appointment comes with a significant background, as he was the royal assistant who filed a formal complaint in 2018 in which he claimed bullying by Meghan Markle in her time as Duchess of Sussex – a claim that she strongly denied. The controversy surrounding the complaint led to an internal investigation by Buckingham Palace and changes to staff policies, although details were not publicly disclosed. Nevertheless, Knauf maintained a close working relationship with Prince William, after serving as communications secretary for both royal couples before separating their offices. He later became CEO of the Royal Foundation, oversight of William and Kate’s charity work, and continued his involvement in the Earthshot prize as a curator before this new appointment. Who is Jason Knauf? Jason Knauf is an American-born communications professional who was originally from Texas, who grew up mainly in Virginia. He studied at the University of Pittsburgh before moving to New Zealand to attend Victoria University of Wellington. Later, he obtained a master’s degree in politics and communication from the London School of Economics. Knauf’s early career included roles in New Zealand politics and financial institutions such as the Royal Bank of Scotland and the British Treasury. Knauf joined the British royal household in 2015 as communications secretary, who initially worked for Prince William, Prince Harry and their wives. After their engagement, he became involved with the Sussexes, but divorced with them in 2018 amid the allegations of the bullies. After the Royal Split in 2019, Knauf continued to serve Prince William and Catherine, and eventually became CEO of their Royal Foundation until early 2022. He was honored as a lieutenant of the Royal Victorian order in 2023 for his service. In addition to his royal duties, Knauf established his own consultation and is involved in conservation efforts worldwide. His new role as CEO of the Earthshot Prize puts him at the forefront of Prince William’s efforts to accelerate innovative environmental challenges worldwide. First published: 17 Apr 2025, 10:26 p.m.