You’ve probably been hoping that the young blonde woman who appears in many photos with Meghan Markle is some sort of kickass bodyguard specialising in mixed martial arts.
You’re not totally wrong – the young woman, Amy Pickerill, is a sort of bodyguard to Meghan Markle – she’s her personal assistant. And although she’s no James Bond she does have to hold a fairly low profile, flying under the radar to avoid public attention. She is certainly not allowed to discuss her job (or how Meghan likes her coffee) which explains her lack of interviews.
Pickerill was first spotted at the side of the royal newlyweds in January 2018. She was given her official title of private assistant secretary on February 19 but had previously been working for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry’s office as a senior communications officer from September 2016.
One of Pickerill’s main duties is to advise the new Duchess on what she can and cannot do, i.e. make political statements or comments and get involved in controversies. Other jobs include shadowing Meghan at public appearances, collecting flowers from fans, and helping the Duchess navigate the crowds.
Pickerill and Meghan clearly have a close connection or Pickerill wouldn’t be Meghan’s right-hand woman. Holding such a position, Pickerill will encounter Meghan at her most vulnerable; after a long day of public appearances or after an emotionally taxing visit to a children’s hospital, so the pair will have to maintain a close bond.
Rumour has it that a communications officer with the royal family earns around £30,000 pounds. Pickerill might be earning something similar. It may not be a heck of a lot of money but who really cares if you’re getting paid to be Meghan’s BFF.
