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- Tasks: Join a dedicated team to ensure smooth daily running of a private estate.
- Company: Work in a prestigious private estate located in the beautiful Cotswolds.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours during off-peak months and a competitive salary.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team, delivering high standards of service in a warm environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in luxury hospitality or private households is essential; must have a clean driving licence.
- Other info: Live-out preferred, but live-in may be considered for the right candidate.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Private Estate, North Cotswolds, UK
Working Hours:
- In residence: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, 6 days per week (including weekends)
- Out of residence: Flexible hours, reduced workload (4–5 months per year)
Salary: £40,000 – £50,000pa, dependent on experience
Start Date: End of August/beginning of September
Accommodation: Live-out preferred (live-in may be considered for the right candidate)
Job Summary: An experienced and discreet Houseman / Butler is required to join a well-run private estate in the Cotswolds. This is a hands-on role for a dedicated professional who will work as part of a team to ensure the smooth daily running of the household, with an emphasis on service, cleanliness, and readiness at all times. The Principals are in residence for approximately 7.5 months of the year, during which a high standard of service is expected. During their absence (approximately 4–5 months per year), the working hours are reduced, offering a more flexible schedule.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide formal and informal front-of-house service, including table service, drink preparation, and greeting guests
- Ensure the interior and exterior of the house is impeccably maintained at all times
- Close down the property in the evenings
- Maintain household inventories and liaise with suppliers and service providers
- Run errands, drive the Principals and guests when required
- Care for fine furnishings, artwork, silver, and antiques
- Set up and manage formal and informal dining occasions
- Assist with event preparation and hosting when required
- Work closely with other household staff and external contractors
- Provide security awareness and vigilance on the property
- Complete general maintenance and light DIY tasks
- Pet care as needed
Candidate Requirements:
- Prior experience in a similar role within a private household or luxury hospitality setting
- Strong knowledge of service etiquette and household protocol
- Highly organised, proactive, and discreet with a calm demeanour
- Professional, flexible, and capable of adapting to the varying needs of the household
- Must have a clean UK driving licence
- Right to work in the UK
- Excellent references required
Additional Details: This role would suit someone with a strong service ethos who enjoys working in a structured yet warm household. You’ll be part of a small, supportive team and valued for your attention to detail, discretion, and commitment to maintaining a beautiful and welcoming home.
Houseman / Butler employer: The Burford Recruitment Company Ltd
Contact Detail:
The Burford Recruitment Company Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Houseman / Butler
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific etiquette and protocols of high-end service. Understanding the nuances of formal dining and guest interactions will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in maintaining a household, especially in terms of cleanliness and organisation. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've ensured a high standard of service in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your flexibility and adaptability by sharing instances where you've successfully managed changing priorities or unexpected situations in a household setting. This will show that you're ready for the dynamic nature of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network within the luxury hospitality sector or private household community. Personal recommendations can be invaluable, so consider reaching out to former colleagues or industry contacts who might know of opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Houseman / Butler
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in private households or luxury hospitality settings. Emphasise your knowledge of service etiquette and household protocol, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for service and your ability to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and readiness. Mention specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your discretion and organisational skills.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills related to front-of-house service, event preparation, and maintenance tasks. This will show that you understand the diverse responsibilities of the Houseman / Butler role.
Provide Strong References: Ensure you have excellent references ready from previous employers who can vouch for your professionalism and work ethic. This is particularly important for a role that requires discretion and trust.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Burford Recruitment Company Ltd
✨Showcase Your Service Etiquette
As a Houseman / Butler, demonstrating your knowledge of service etiquette is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in formal and informal settings, and highlight specific instances where you provided exceptional service.
✨Emphasise Discretion and Professionalism
This role requires a high level of discretion and professionalism. During the interview, share examples of how you've maintained confidentiality and handled sensitive situations in past roles, showcasing your calm demeanour.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Being highly organised is key in this position. Prepare to discuss how you manage household inventories, coordinate with suppliers, and ensure the smooth running of daily tasks. Consider bringing a portfolio of your previous work to illustrate your organisational abilities.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about practical scenarios related to the job, such as handling dining occasions or managing household maintenance. Think through your approach to these situations and be ready to explain your thought process and actions clearly.
