Additional Coverage:
- Jason Knauf Was Behind Meghan Markle Bullying Claims — And He Now Works for Prince William’s Charity (usmagazine.com)
Royal Aide Knauf Appointed CEO of Prince William’s Earthshot Prize
Jason Knauf, a former royal aide at the center of bullying allegations against Meghan Markle, has been named the new CEO of Prince William’s environmental charity, The Earthshot Prize. The announcement came Thursday, April 17th, with Knauf’s appointment being confirmed by the organization’s Board of Trustees.
In a statement, Knauf expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I am honored to be appointed as the next CEO of The Earthshot Prize and look forward to working with our exceptional team…to advance our mission of urgent optimism for our planet.” He added, “The Prize has already achieved so much and the future potential is vast. I can’t wait to get started.”
Knauf succeeds Hannah Jones, who will step down this summer after four years at the helm. Jones will continue to advise Kensington Palace on innovation and sustainability.
Prince William praised Jones’ leadership, highlighting her role in building the Prize into “a world-class organization” and thanked her for her dedication. He expressed his eagerness to work with Knauf on the next phase of the Prize’s development.
Knauf previously served as communications secretary for both the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. In 2018, he filed a complaint alleging bullying behavior by Meghan Markle, claims she has consistently denied.
This appointment comes amidst ongoing tension between Prince Harry and his brother, Prince William. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped down from their royal duties in 2020 and relocated to California.