We are seeking a Live-in Head Butler for a large private estate in Hampshire. The successful candidate will oversee the smooth operation of the service side of the household, working closely with the House Manager to deliver exceptional hospitality, seamless service, and flawless event execution.
This role also carries responsibility as Assistant House Manager, acting as a key support to the House Manager in the day-to-day running of the estate. You will serve as the eyes and ears when they are engaged with the family, ensuring operations continue to run smoothly and standards are consistently upheld.
This role requires an experienced, service-driven professional with outstanding attention to detail, strong leadership and communication skills, and the ability to remain calm, composed, and discreet under pressure.
Key Responsibilities
Household Service & Management
- Oversee daily household service and hospitality, managing a team of Butlers
- Act as Assistant House Manager, supporting overall household operations and deputising when required.
- Serve as a key liaison across departments, ensuring seamless communication and execution of tasks.
- Work with the House Manager to maintain and improve service standards and procedures.
- Ensure all service reflects the family’s preferences and expectations.
- Promote effective teamwork across departments and with external contractors.
When the Family is in Residence (shoot season only)
- Support the House Manager to deliver exceptional service during stays, shoots, and events.
- Act as the House Manager’s operational support on the ground, maintaining oversight when she is occupied with the family.
- Oversee and coordinate formal and informal dining, porter duties, and guest relations.
- Organise and manage up to 8 temporary Butlers during shoot season, ensuring high standards, clear delegation, and smooth service delivery.
- Coordinate logistics and ensure household readiness at all times.
- Assist with wardrobe management and presentation if required.
- Manage private events and family gatherings with precision and discretion.
When the Family is not in Residence
- Maintain high standards of presentation and cleanliness across the property.
- Assist with deep cleaning, silver care, and inventory management.
- Support broader estate operations and projects as required.
Leadership & Administration
- Lead, train, and motivate the service team, fostering professionalism and excellence.
- Take responsibility for people management, including rota planning, supervision, and performance oversight of both permanent and temporary staff.
- Manage budgets, monitor expenditure, and maintain accurate records.
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations.
Candidate Profile
- Significant experience in a senior household or five-star hospitality role.
- Proven management experience essential, with the ability to lead and organise teams effectively.
- A natural people person, confident managing both permanent and temporary staff.
- Strong leadership, organisation, and communication skills.
- Exceptional attention to detail and high service standards.
- Discreet, emotionally intelligent, and professional.
- Confident in budgeting and stock management.
- Calm under pressure, adaptable, and team-oriented.
Terms & Package
- Salary: £70-80,000 GPA
- Probation: 6 months
- Hours: Flexibility required, especially during shoot season; includes weekends, evenings, and late nights when the family is in residence.
- Accommodation: Provided; rent, water, and Council Tax above Band A covered by employer (other costs employee’s responsibility).
- Annual Leave: 25 days plus public holidays
- Pension: 5% employer / 3% employee (after 3 months)
- Private Medical Insurance: 50% employer contribution (after probation)
- Year-End Bonus: Discretionary, performance-based
- Sick Pay: Up to 3 months after one year’s service
- Wellbeing Support: Confidential helpline and wellbeing app
- Meals: Provided during working day
- Uniform & PPE: Provided
REF: S&W#3566604
