Overview
Peter Mark Andrew Phillips (born 15 November 1977) is a member of the British royal family and the eldest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He is the elder child and only son of Anne, Princess Royal, and her first husband, Captain Mark Phillips. He does not use a royal title and has pursued a career in the private sector rather than full-time royal duties.
Early life and education
Born into one of the United Kingdom's most prominent families, Phillips was raised with a mix of public exposure and private family life. His parents sought to give their children a relatively normal upbringing outside the paid House of Windsor. He attended school in Britain and later undertook higher education, preparing for a career outside the formal structures of royal service.
Career
Rather than taking on formal royal office, Phillips has worked in commercial roles, specialising in areas such as sports marketing, events management, corporate sponsorship and logistics for large-scale events. Over the years he has been employed in operational and managerial positions in businesses and organisations connected to sporting and promotional activities, combining public-facing projects with behind-the-scenes administration.
Personal life
In 2008 Phillips married Autumn Kelly. The couple have two daughters, Savannah and Isla. Phillips has generally maintained a lower public profile than many titled members of his family, balancing family life with private-sector work while appearing at major family and national occasions when required. He and his former spouse later separated and divorced; he remains involved in his daughters' upbringing.
Public role and status
Phillips is a visible member of the extended royal family who does not perform regular official duties on behalf of the sovereign. His lack of a princely style stems from a decision made by his parents to decline royal honours for their children, allowing him greater freedom to pursue commercial interests. He has represented the family at events such as national commemorations, jubilees and family ceremonies without holding a formal salaried royal role.
Succession and position
As a direct descendant of Queen Elizabeth II, Phillips has been in the line of succession to the British throne. His precise place in that line has changed over time with subsequent births within the royal family.
Quick facts
- Full name: Peter Mark Andrew Phillips
- Date of birth: 15 November 1977
- Parents: Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips
- Children: Two daughters, Savannah and Isla
- Profession: Businessman with experience in sports, events and sponsorship
Phillips illustrates a strand of the modern royal family in which some descendants remain close to public life while pursuing independent careers outside the official, salaried work of the monarchy. He continues to balance private enterprise with participation in significant family and national events.