Job Description
Seeking a hardworking and experienced Butler/House Manager to oversee an estate in Wiltshire, including the family home, guest cottages, recreational spaces, and the shoot.
The successful candidate must be adaptable and able to switch between a hands-on approach when the Principal and family are present and a more management-focused role when they are not in residence.
The property is used heavily during weekends and school holidays, with the family away travelling around 3 months of the year.
Responsibilities:
Maintaining a strong front-of-house presence and ensuring a seamless experience for the Principal’s family and guests, whilst maintaining the informal and laid-back atmosphere
Managing the private and recreational areas of the estate, from handling staff rotas, administration, contractor coordination to seasonal tasks and maintaining the property
Utilise and maintain all household electronic systems
Provide an exemplary level of food and beverage service, ensuring the highest standards of hospitality are maintained
Manage a team effectively, and work collaboratively with the Estate Manager and other household staff members
Update and maintain Standard of Procedures for tasks and processes, and oversee provisioning and stock management
Update and maintain relevant manuals and retain accurate documentation of household operations
Oversee the recruitment and training of temporary and ad hoc staff, when required
Ensure 24-hour provision of service through shift rotations when the Principal is in residence
Valeting
Requirements:
Proven experience as a Butler/House Manager in a similar setting
Ability to manage both front-of-house and estate management responsibilities
Strong organisational and multitasking skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Acute attention to detail, as the Principals have a strong aesthetic sense, and small nuances such as floristry and presentation hold significant importance to them
Thick-skinned and capable of adapting to a fast-paced nature
Discipline and availability to meet the client’s needs
Effective team management, recruitment and training experience
A valid UK Driving License
Accommodation and Benefits
A separate property will be provided for the successful candidate. As the property is due to undergo renovation, temporary accommodation in a shared staff house will be available prior to moving in.
Council tax will be paid for by the estate, but electricity and heating costs will be the responsibility of the Butler/House Manager.
An estate vehicle is available for work use and local travel, when required.
Standard holidays to be taken when the family aren’t in residence.