The King's most senior aide, Sir Clive Alderton, steps down after 20 years of 'tireless' service

The King’s most senior aide, Sir Clive Alderton, has announced he will step down after 20 years working in the royal household.

Sir Clive's tenure as Charles' right-hand man saw him play a leading role in the King's coronation and the response to various family scandals.

He said on Monday that he would resign as the King and Queen's principal private secretary next year - aligning with his 60th birthday in May - but will continue supporting the royal couple in a "less formal capacity".

Sir Clive said in a message to staff: "It has been the greatest imaginable honour to serve the King and Queen in my present role through such historic times and with unforgettable humour along the way.

"That support will continue, in a less formal capacity, for all of my life."

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "I know Their Majesties are deeply grateful to [Sir] Clive for his tireless support and wise counsel over the years, and for the enduring loyalty that will ensure a smooth transition to his successor."

The palace will now seek to recruit his successor, and will consider external and internal candidates, before a handover period during the spring and summer of 2027.

Sir Clive has frequently been at the King's side during high profile engagements, and has been photographed receiving prime ministers at the palace for the start and end of their tenures.

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During his years in post, Sir Clive played a pivotal role in King Charles' smooth accession to the throne and his first years as monarch.

His time in the job has coincided with challenges like the decision of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to step down as working royals, and the fall of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. He's speculated to have played a part in managing these moments.

It's understood Sir Clive, who has been described by his wife as "complete workaholic", plans to spend more time with his family after he steps down from the role.

Sir Clive has been principle private secretary to the King and Queen for 11 years, in the culmination of a career that also saw him serve as private secretary for foreign and commonwealth affairs, and ambassador to Morocco.

He also served as deputy private secretary to the then Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall from 2006 to 2008.

(c) Sky News 2026: The King's most senior aide, Sir Clive Alderton, steps down after 20 years of 'tireless' service