Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Communications Chief Reveals Major Job Transition.Linh

The Duchess of Sussex will soon be launching her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s global communications chief, Ashley Hansen, has confirmed that she will be branching away from her role with the couple to set up her own business, Three Gate Strategies.

Ashley confirmed that her new brand will “specialise in communications and brand management for distinguished individuals and organisations” with a particular focus on female-led businesses.

understands that Ashley will continue to represent and advise the Duke and Duchess and their communications team.

Ashley Hansen in a blue outfit — Ashley is making a major career move

Ashley also revealed that she would be representing Meghan’s commercial business as well as other creative projects led by the former actress.

Meghan was incredibly proud of her friend’s move, and in a statement 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.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle sat down with hands on their knees — Ashley has steered the Duke and Duchess through major events, including the launch of their Netflix series

“My husband and I are excited to be alongside Ashley as she builds something extraordinarily special with her firm.”

Ashley added: “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.

Meghan Markle wearing brown coord in Colombia — Meghan shared her pride for Ashley

“I knew when they first hired me that they were giving me the opportunity of a lifetime and I couldn’t be happier to continue working together.”

Last month, the Duchess was dealt a small setback for her new brand when its trademark application was refused, with the application noting that it is a “commonly used nickname” for the area.

Meghan markle sitting on stage — Ashley shared she would Meghan with her lifestyle brand

It’s currently unknown when the company will begin trading, however, there have been plenty of insights into the products that the brand will be selling.

Previous trademark application filings disclosed some of the products, including digital and print cookbooks, tableware such as cutlery, dinnerware and decanters, napkins and tablecloths, and a variety of food ranging from jams and jellies to spreads and butters.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry in black outfits during the Invictus Games — The Duchess suffered a setback with the brand last month

Back in April, the Duchess had the first of the products sent off, with several of Meghan’s friends receiving jars of jam.