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- Tasks: Manage a large family estate, ensuring smooth daily operations and high cleanliness standards.
- Company: Join a reputable family known for their informal yet high-standard household near Henley-on-Thames.
- Benefits: Enjoy a one-bedroom cottage with a kitchen, plus the chance to work in a beautiful rural setting.
- Why this job: Perfect for those who love organisation, event planning, and working with a friendly family atmosphere.
- Qualifications: Experience as a House Manager or similar role is essential; must be organised and tech-savvy.
- Other info: Candidates should be comfortable around pets and have a valid DBS check.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent
Start: July / August 2025
Accommodation: one bedroom cottage with self-contained kitchen & bathroom
We are seeking a professional, experienced and service-oriented Live-in/out House Manager to oversee the smooth running of a large Family Estate near Henley-on-Thames, South Oxfordshire. This is an informal household operating with high standards, and you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the house, grounds, and vehicles – ensuring high standards of cleanliness and organisation and that household operations run smoothly.
You will ensure staff such as gardeners are managed, will liaise with external contractors and maintain household inventories and supplies. Additionally, you’ll manage and coordinate a small domestic staff, scheduling rota and giving hands-on assistance and guidance where necessary.
It is important that you are a confident driver to assist with school runs for one child, and will also ensure vehicles are kept clean and arrange MOTs and servicing. You will also proactively anticipate the Family’s frequent travel plans. Additionally, you will plan and oversee private events (coordinating with chefs, florists, or caterers as needed) and ensure guests are welcomed. With dogs in the household, you should also be happy around animals.
The role may particularly suit candidates from a Butler-service or Head Housekeeper background who are happy in a busy all-rounder role within a beautiful rural location – nearby to good public transport links.
To apply for this role you must:
- Be eligible to work in the UK
- Have proven experience as a House Manager, Butler, Head Housekeeper or similar in a private household
- Be highly organized with excellent attention to detail
- Be proactive, discreet, and trustworthy
- Be tech-savvy and confident using household systems and basic software
- Have a valid DBS check or be willing to obtain one
- Have excellent contactable references
To apply for the position please send your CV to info@poppylaneplacements.com
Contact Detail:
Poppy Lane Placements Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Role: Live-in/out House Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of a family estate. Research common household management practices and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with overseeing day-to-day operations, managing staff, and coordinating events.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your organisational skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed household inventories or coordinated schedules in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to maintain high standards and ensure smooth operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Since the role involves driving, make sure to mention your driving experience and any relevant qualifications. Being confident behind the wheel is crucial, especially for school runs and maintaining the vehicles.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your enthusiasm for working in a rural setting and around animals. If you have experience with pets or in similar environments, share those stories to connect with the family's lifestyle and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Role: Live-in/out House Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a House Manager, Butler, or Head Housekeeper. Emphasise your organisational skills, attention to detail, and any experience managing staff or coordinating events.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your personality and service-oriented approach. Mention your experience with household management, your ability to work with external contractors, and your comfort around animals, especially dogs.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, be sure to mention your tech-savviness and familiarity with household systems. Include any certifications or checks, like a valid DBS check, to demonstrate your trustworthiness.
Provide Strong References: Gather contactable references from previous employers who can vouch for your experience and character. Make sure they are aware they might be contacted, so they can provide a positive endorsement of your skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at Poppy Lane Placements Ltd
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous roles in detail, especially if you have experience as a House Manager, Butler, or Head Housekeeper. Highlight specific examples of how you've managed household operations and staff effectively.
✨Demonstrate Organisation Skills
Since the role requires excellent organisational skills, come equipped with examples of how you've successfully managed schedules, inventories, and events in the past. This will show that you can handle the responsibilities of the position.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your approach to managing a household, including how you would handle unexpected situations or conflicts among staff. Think through scenarios in advance so you can respond confidently.
✨Express Your Love for Animals
As there are dogs in the household, make sure to express your comfort and experience with animals. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to care for pets while managing household duties.
