Patrick Jephson is a consultant, journalist, broadcaster, and New York Times and London Sunday Times best-selling author. Born and raised in Ireland, Patrick earned his master’s degree in political science from the University of Cambridge. After serving ten years as an officer in the Royal Navy, he was selected to join the royal household as an equerry and, later, as the first and only private secretary (chief of staff) to Diana, Princess of Wales. In recognition of his personal service to the sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II appointed him Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order.

His work for Princess Diana involved daily correspondence with British and foreign officials at all levels—including heads of state. Patrick also arranged Princess Diana’s international visits and traveled with her all over the world; many of these experiences are recalled in his book Portraits of a Princess: Travels with Diana.