At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage operations and housekeeping at a stunning Georgian country house and events venue.
- Company: Award-winning venue near Wantage, known for its beautiful weddings and events.
- Benefits: £72,000 salary for the couple, free accommodation, pension contributions, and 28 days holiday.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for travel during off-peak seasons.
- Why this job: Live on-site, work together, and create unforgettable experiences for guests.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations and housekeeping, plus a driving licence is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 36000 £ per year.
Ardington House is a Georgian country house and events venue near Wantage, Oxfordshire, and an award-winning venue, named Best Country House Wedding Venue. We are recruiting a couple to fill two named roles: an Operations Manager and a Head of Housekeeping. The couple will live on site and work together across the running of the House and its events.
COMPENSATION PACKAGE
- Salary of £36,000 per annum for each role (£72,000 for the couple)
- Discretionary bonus, paid after the end of each calendar year
- Free use of a furnished flat within the House (employer pays council tax, electricity, gas, wifi and heating)
- Pension contribution
AVERAGE WEEKLY HOURS
37.5 hours. Five days per week, in the main 9:00 to 17:30 with one hour off for lunch.
HOLIDAY ENTITLEMENT
28 days paid holiday
DURATION
Permanent (initial six month trial)
RESPONSIBILITIES
Operations Manager
- Event Operations – Working with the Sales and Events team to organise all event preparations, including setting up the House and marquee to a specific plan, liaising with wedding suppliers, moving furniture and equipment, post event damage and stock checks, and arranging event deliveries and collections.
- House Maintenance – Monitoring and resolving day to day maintenance issues at the House, carrying out small fixes and painting, and managing tradespeople for larger works.
- Grounds and Facilities – There is a full gardening team, but occasional garden, pool and tennis court maintenance work may be required.
Head of Housekeeping
- Housekeeping – Leading all housekeeping duties (cleaning, laundry, bed changing and looking after house guests). The House has 12 bedrooms and there is also an event marquee in the grounds.
- Guest Care – Preparing rooms for weddings, private hire and holiday rental clients, hosting, and assisting with arrivals and departures of guests.
Shared Duties
- Events – Ardington House has a busy events schedule (40 to 50 events per year) and the wedding season runs from April until October. During this period, weekend and evening work will be required, with days off taken on weekdays. Events are run by an event manager, but the couple will work on a rota on event days to provide hosting, to coordinate with the catering and event management teams, and to secure the House during events. Weddings take place in the marquee, and once guests have moved to the marquee it is the couple's responsibility to monitor access to the House, which is provided to overnight guests alone.
- Other – When the family is in residence, occasional cooking, driving (one driving licence is essential), shopping and waitering will be required. Ability to assist in the events office to cover holidays of the events team would be a bonus.
ACCOMMODATION
There is a fully furnished and spacious flat within the House, with all bills and wifi included. There is an outdoor swimming pool and tennis court, which staff may use when clients are not in residence.
REPORTING
Both roles report to the owner, Lorne Baring, who will be the line manager. The House Manager, Charlie Cross, works from the House most days. The owners do not live in the House but visit through the year with their families. The House may also be occupied at times by holiday rental clients. Position start: October 2026, with a handover period alongside the current housekeeping couple.
FLEXIBLE WORKING ARRANGEMENTS
These positions will suit a couple willing to work a flexible schedule. Hours are long during the peak wedding season (with weekend work) and shorter during the off season. Overtime hours accumulated during the peak season can be used as time off in lieu (TOIL) during the off season. The roles will suit couples who wish to travel or take extended periods off during the winter.
Residential Couple - Operations Manager and Head of Housekeeping in Wantage employer: Ardington House
Ardington House offers a unique opportunity for a couple to thrive in a beautiful Georgian country house setting, renowned for its award-winning events. With a competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement, and the convenience of on-site accommodation, employees can enjoy a supportive work culture that values teamwork and flexibility. The roles provide ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Couple - Operations Manager and Head of Housekeeping in Wantage
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Ardington House. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Ardington House
Don't be shy about reaching out to Ardington House directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Couple - Operations Manager and Head of Housekeeping in Wantage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Ardington House and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ardington House
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
