Prince William's new private secretary could see royal engagements change dramatically

Prince William’s team welcomed a new employee last week, and it looks like this latest addition could drastically change the future of royal engagements. 

• Prince William has hired a new member of staff to assist with the royal family's financial affairs. 
• Jean-Christophe Gray, who previously worked as spokesperson of former Prime Minster Gorden, will focus on the expenditure for royal events. 
• In other royal news, Catherine reportedly had a completely different name in mind for Prince George.  (opens in new tab)

Jean Christophe Gray has been hired as the private secretary to the Duke of Cambridge, Kensington Palace has confirmed, to help the Royal Family with its financial affairs. 

Jean-Christophe Gray brings a wealth of political experience to his new role as Prince William’s most senior advisor, having previously worked as the spokesperson for former Prime Minister David Cameron. The Oxford graduate earned a reputation as a ‘cost-cutter’ during his ten-year tenure as Head of General Expenditure, after implementing tough measures to cut public spending. 

Now, Jean-Christophe will help Prince William to optimize the Royal Family’s use of public money. 

According to a source in the Sunday Times, Jean-Christophe’s calm demeanor masks an extreme frugality. “Because he was so mild-mannered, no one ever really noticed he was a Whitehall velociraptor intent on kneecapping anyone who wants to spend money.” 

Described as “clever, a little geeky, and beyond reproach,” the astute bookkeeper will reportedly focus on reducing the cost of royal engagements. 

Jean-Christophe will replace Christian Jones, who is leaving to join Bridgepoint, a private equity firm. 

The announcement of Jean-Christophe’s appointment comes just days after the news that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle confirm they are never coming back to the Royal Family. The Queen confirmed that the couple, who are now living in California and expecting their second child, will not be able to continue as working royals while living abroad. Harry and Meghan will be required to return their Royal Patronages, which will be redistributed to other members of the family. 

Meghan and Harry are due to share their side of the story in an upcoming interview with Oprah Winfrey, which will air on March 7th. The high-anticipated interview was reportedly filmed last Tuesday and will discuss the couple’s abandonment of their royal duties as well as their current life in California.