Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have taken a significant step in bolstering their team by appointing new communication executives.
Miranda Barber, the former Director of Global Communications, has been promoted to the position of Vice President of Programs and Media Operations, as confirmed by People magazine.
Joining their ranks are Charlie Gibson and Kyle Boulia, who have assumed roles within the office of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex under the leadership of Ashley Hansen, the couple’s head of communications.
Gibson, stationed in the UK, has been designated as the Director of Communications, responsible for liaising with European media outlets.
With an extensive background spanning two decades in brand management and public relations, Gibson has spearheaded campaigns for prominent clients such as Instagram, Samsung, and Haribo.
On the other hand, Boulia has been appointed as the Deputy Press Secretary and Director of Communications for US Media, stationed in Los Angeles, following his departure from United Talent Agency in late March.
Critics have raised questions about the necessity of such a top-heavy organizational structure for Meghan and Harry, questioning the need for numerous vice presidents and directors without a clear focus on day-to-day operations.
The couple, who have distanced themselves from the royal family, seem to be emulating the very institution they criticize.
Despite their aversion to traditional royal practices, the appointment of high-ranking communication executives appears contradictory to their public stance.
The duo’s business ventures, including lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify, have provided initial financial gains, but subsequent projects have been met with skepticism.
Their upcoming venture, “The Cook Show,” scheduled after a prolonged hiatus, currently offers only Strawberry Jam under their Archewell Productions label.
The slow pace of product releases coupled with perceived quality issues have left observers questioning the need for an elaborate executive team.
Meghan and Harry’s penchant for grandiose titles for their staff members has not gone unnoticed, with positions like Vice President of Global Audio Production and Global Communications Director raising eyebrows.
The constant turnover within their communication team, with individuals departing within short periods, has fueled speculation about the couple’s management style and ability to retain talent.
Critics have been vocal about the couple’s recruitment practices, with one Reddit user deriding their need for a director of communications, likening it to a rural household attempting to project a corporate image.
The perceived self-importance exhibited by Meghan and Harry in their staffing announcements has drawn comparisons to established organizations with substantial revenues, leading to accusations of pretentiousness and misplaced priorities.
Despite the ongoing scrutiny and criticism surrounding Meghan and Harry’s business decisions and staffing choices, the couple continues to forge ahead with their endeavors.
As they navigate the complexities of public perception and media scrutiny, the efficacy of their communication strategy remains a subject of debate.
The Harkles, as they are colloquially referred to, face ongoing challenges in managing their public image and reputation, with each new hire and announcement scrutinized for its impact on their evolving narrative.