King Charles‘ senior aide, Sir Clive Alderton, is reportedly set to leave his position next year. The recruitment process to find his successor is expected to begin in the spring or summer of 2027. Amid this, an excerpt from Prince Harry‘s 2023 memoir, Spare, is making rounds, where he referred to Alderton as “Wasp” and later explained the reason behind the nickname.
King Charles’ top aide to step down in 2027
Sir Clive Alderton will no longer be principal private secretary to King Charles in 2027. He is set to step down from his position around his 60th birthday, which falls in May. Alderton has been of service to the royal household for 20 years, playing a key role in prominent occasions, including Charles’ accession to the throne and his early years of the monarchy.
In a message shared with PEOPLE, Alderton expressed his gratitude for this longtime opportunity to serve His Majesty as he continued to describe his overall experience. He said, “It has been the greatest imaginable honor to serve the King and Queen in my present role through such historic times and with unforgettable humor along the way. That support will continue, in a less formal capacity, for all of my life.”
Additionally, a palace spokesperson told the outlet that even Charles and Queen Camilla are “deeply grateful” for his years of support, counsel, and loyalty. They look forward to a smooth transition to his successor.
Meanwhile, in Spare, Prince Harry allotted insect names to three key staffers, with Alderton being given the “Wasp” name. He described him as “charming, arrogant, a ball of jazzy energy.” The prince claimed that the king’s aide was skilled at appearing polite and humble. However, he alleged that at times, he would challenge even the most straightforward things in a way that made people doubt themselves.
“Because he seemed so weedy, so self-effacing, you might be tempted to push back, insist on your point, and that was when he’d put you on his list. A short time later, without warning, he’d give you such a stab with his outsized stinger that you’d cry in confusion. ‘Where the f**k did that come from?” Harry had written.
Originally reported by Shazmeen Navrange on Mandatory.
