Ashley Hansen, the global communications chief for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, has announced she is leaving her role to set up her own business, Three Gate Strategies. The new firm will specialise in communications and brand management for distinguished individuals and organisations, with a particular focus on female-led businesses.
The Duke and Duchess will remain clients of Hansen's new venture. Meghan Markle even helped brainstorm the name, which derives from a Rumi proverb about considering whether something is true, necessary and kind before speaking. Hansen will continue to advise the couple and their communications team, and will also represent Meghan's commercial business and other creative projects.
In a statement, Meghan said: 'We are so proud of Ashley, especially as a female entrepreneur. We look forward to having her focused expertise on our business and creative projects and her continued oversight of our communications team.' Harry added: 'My husband and I are excited to be alongside Ashley as she builds something extraordinarily special with her firm.'
Hansen expressed gratitude, saying: 'I am incredibly grateful to The Duke and Duchess for their continued trust. Their unwavering support and belief in my new firm has been meaningful and is a testament to their leadership.'
Meanwhile, Meghan's own brand faced a setback last month when its trademark application was refused, with the application noting it is a 'commonly used nickname' for the area. The brand is expected to sell products including cookbooks, tableware, and food items such as jams and spreads.
