Princess Kate, currently recuperating, has recently welcomed a new member to her team who is set to assist her as she prepares to return to her royal duties.
Despite being without a private secretary since 2022, the Duchess of Cambridge has now reportedly enlisted the help of an individual with extensive royal experience, and intriguingly, a striking resemblance to a well-known athlete.
The Times reported that Kate has chosen Lieutenant-Colonel Tom White, a former knight to Queen Elizabeth II, as her new private secretary.
Lieutenant-Colonel White bears a remarkable resemblance to tennis legend Roger Federer, who shares a friendship with the Duchess.
His impressive background includes serving alongside the late Queen until her passing on 8 September 2022, making him the first Royal Marines commando to hold such a position.
Lieutenant-Colonel White’s presence was notable during significant events, such as a modified Trooping the Colour ceremony in the summer of 2021, and the Royal Windsor Horse Show.
Described as beloved by every member of the royal family, he was even present during the Queen’s final engagements, including welcoming former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at Balmoral Castle just days before her passing at the age of 96.
Having joined the Buckingham Palace team in 2020 following his service with the Royal Marines, Lieutenant-Colonel White’s military heroism was highlighted by his actions in Afghanistan in 2009.
At just 22 years old, he played a crucial role in preventing a school bombing orchestrated by the Taliban, demonstrating his bravery and dedication.
This appointment marks Kate’s first private secretary since the departure of Hannah Coburn and Logan in October 2022.
The decision to bring Lieutenant-Colonel White on board reflects a return to tradition for the royal family, emphasizing their longstanding connection to the military, and honoring the legacy of her husband’s late grandmother.
In a parallel move, Prince William, Kate’s husband, also made a significant staffing decision by appointing Ian Patrick to manage his office at the end of February.
Patrick, a former diplomat with experience in international peacekeeping in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is actively involved in charitable work, serving as a trustee for Crohn’s and Colitis UK.
As Kate continues her recovery from abdominal surgery, following a 13-day hospitalization in January, she is not expected to resume her public duties until after Easter.
Amidst this period of transition, both Kate and William are strategically building their teams to ensure a smooth return to their royal responsibilities, showcasing their commitment to serving the monarchy and the public.