Meghan Markle [1] officially became the Duchess of Sussex [2] in May, and she's already off and running with her royal duties. She's attended the Trouping the Colour ceremony [3] in celebration of the Queen's birthday and stepped out for her first royal engagement with her majesty [4] just this month.
But despite how poised Meghan already is in the public eye, she's certainly not navigating her new life alone. She's had help from Prince Harry [5], sure, but Meghan also has behind-the-scenes support from a dedicated palace aide named Amy Pickerill. Get to know Meghan's 32-year-old royal assistant ahead.
She's Familiar With the Royal Family
Since 2016, Amy has been employed by the royal family. She was previously a communications officer in the Kensington Palace press office [6], but has now moved to the private office of Prince Harry, where she has specifically been assigned to working with Meghan.
Her official title is Assistant Private Secretary to Prince Harry [7]. Above, she's photographed attending the royal wedding in May [8].
Her Background Is in Banking
While Amy's experience in public relations is integral to her royal role, she actually got her start in another world: banking. According to her Linkedin profile [9], Amy worked at the Royal Bank of Scotland from February 2011 to November 2014. Before that, she had a position with the HM Treasury.
She's Been Supporting Meghan For Months
Amy was first photographed with Meghan in January 2018, when Meghan and Harry visited Reprezent Radio [10] in Brixton, South London. It was reported that Amy was also helping Meghan with wedding planning in the months leading up to the big day.
She Hasn't Always Lived in the UK
Amy, who graduated from the University of Nottingham with a BA in History in 2007, briefly lived in Manhattan from November 2014 to June 2015 when she worked for Ogilvy Public Relations.
You'll See Her by Meghan's Side at Royal Engagements
Amy travels with Meghan, so you'll often see her walking closely behind the Duchess of Sussex during public outings. She helps guide the Duchess during events, and also handles many of the flowers and gifts that are given to Meghan by the public.
She's Not the Only Aide Supporting Meghan
While Amy is dedicated to working with Meghan, another important royal aide is helping guide the Duchess during her this transitional time. Samantha Cohen (pictured above behind Meghan) was an assistant private secretary to the Queen [11], and is now working directly with Meghan and Harry. She will reportedly be travelling with them to Australia in October when the couple embarks on their first royal tour.
