Summary
HOUSE MANAGER/BUTLER/VALET
WASHINGTON, USA
Accommodation: Provided
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS: Previous private house experience, strong communication skills, flexibility, fluent French and English a MUST.
A career in yachting will not be enough, you MUST be able to show previous experience as a house manager or butler.
We are seeking an experienced Butler/House Manager with versatility and dynamism, preferably from a high-end hospitality background with exceptionally high standards and experience within a private residence. The position is for an ultra-high-profile family within an historic property in the US. This family own several properties in the US and abroad.
The Washington property is to undergo a major refurbishment and will be ready for occupation circa Dec 2024/Jan 2025. The Butler/House Manager will be responsible for ensuring the successful operation of the property.
When the family are in residence the House Manager will be responsible for ensuring that all the needs of the family and guests are met efficiently and discreetly, and as part of the wider role, you will be responsible for coordinating deliveries, liaising with contractors, and managing an extensive inventory of artwork and antiques.
The role will focus on the management of the property as a whole and the property households, including the recruitment and working alongside sufficient housekeeping staff as well as travelling staff. The position is about fulfilling the functional requirements of a busy household, while delivering on a very high level of F & B service, front of house and hospitality.
Candidates will need to judge when to be on hand to cater for the needs of the family and when to blend in with the remainder of the team to ensure all is running smoothly.
Duties will include:
To ensure the highest standards of comfort of the family and guests whenever in residence.
To take overall responsibility for the housekeeping staff at the property.
Management of the household staff including housekeepers and freelance/temporary staff.
Wardrobe management and care of clothes, liaising with travelling staff as necessary.
To take a proactive approach, use initiative and operate in a responsive and timely way to achieve the very best results.
To have a flexible approach, the ability to multitask, work as part of a team and work well under pressure.
To have a hands-on approach, dealing personally with what needs doing.
To ensure all areas are tidy, proper maintenance of the different types of furniture, and the different types of floors, delicate materials, care of silverware, objects d’art etc.
Operating hi-tech appliances including complex heating system, AV system, air-conditioning, etc.
Running errands.
Arranging and being present for relevant appointments at the property.
Overall assistance with the efficient running of the property.
Working with the team and private office.
Occasionally act as a driver for the principles.
