The search will soon begin for a new right-hand man or woman for King Charles, with the current principal private secretary, Sir Clive Alderton, set to step down next year.

This highly influential, behind the scenes, figure is responsible for organising the King and Queen’s official work, advising on events such as the Coronation and also getting involved in more personal aspects of the monarchy.

Sir Clive was there to give a formal welcome to Andy Burnham last week when he arrived at Buckingham Palace to become the new prime minister.

Meanwhile the Duke of Sussex dubbed him “the Wasp” in his memoir, as he described the private secretary’s role in discussions about Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex stepping down as working royals and moving to the US.

Sir Clive, who joined the Royal Household 20 years ago, will stay in post until his 60th birthday in May 2027, with a Palace source saying he would help with the handover to his successor, once he or she has been appointed.

A Palace spokesman said the King and Queen were “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”.

Sir Clive was a familiar sight accompanying the King and Queen on visits and state occasions – and he had helped them with a smooth transition when they had taken to the throne in September 2022.

The outgoing principal private secretary had an annual pay package of £300,000 to £305,000.

A former diplomat, Sir Clive’s backroom position in the Palace was similar to a permanent secretary in Whitehall, not front of stage, but with much hidden influence and access to power, as they advised and helped to put plans into action.

Prince Harry, who talked about a number of courtiers in less than flattering terms in his book Spare, described the influential role of a figure he called “the Wasp”, who was widely seen as Sir Clive.

This involved playing a part in plans for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s changed role and their departure from the UK in 2020.

As well as being a gatekeeper and chief adviser to the monarch, Sir Clive also referenced the importance of having a sense of humour, on a job that might go from meeting President Donald Trump to a local visit and a state occasion.

“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,” said Sir Clive.

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