House Manager
Our client is seeking an experienced and highly organised House Manager to oversee the smooth operation of a substantial private weekend residence near Newbury. The property is used primarily at weekends and during school holidays by a young family with two children.
This is a senior, hands-on appointment suited to a proactive individual who is comfortable taking full responsibility for a household while remaining willing to support operationally when required, including assisting with housekeeping and laundry during staff absence.
The House Manager will act as the principal point of contact for the family, ensuring the property is maintained to an exceptional standard and that all household operations are managed efficiently, discreetly, and with sound judgement.
Key Responsibilities
Household Management & Operations
Overall responsibility for the presentation, organisation, and day-to-day running of the property
Planning and management of staff rotas (currently a small team of 2 housekeepers)
Hands-on support with housekeeping and laundry when required
Creation and maintenance of household manuals, policies, and procedures
Oversight of household systems, including heating, air conditioning, AV, and security
Acting as the primary liaison for the Principals, ensuring clear communication and delivery of requirements
Maintaining a positive, professional working environment and high staff morale
Staff & Contractor Management
Supervision, training, and ongoing support of household staff
Oversight of external contractors and service providers, ensuring work is completed to a high standard
Scheduling and management of routine and reactive maintenance
Housekeeping, Wardrobes & Inventory
Oversight of cleaning standards and care of antiques, silver, china, and specialist items
Management of household and wine cellar inventories, including procurement and restocking
Supervision of wardrobe management, packing/unpacking, and valet duties where required
Hospitality & Service
Delivering a high standard of service to family members and guests
Organisation and management of family entertaining and social events
Meal service including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with silver service and wine service where required
Arrangement of simple floral displays
Personal Assistance & Errands
Management of family vehicles (insurance, MOT, servicing, cleaning)
Occasional driving duties including train station and airport transfers
Running household errands and managing purchases
Pet Care & Lifestyle Support
Care of the household dog as required
Day-to-day support of the Principals and guests to ensure a seamless household experience
Administration & Financial Oversight
Oversight of household budgets, purchasing, and bill payments
Accurate record keeping of expenses, maintenance schedules, and inventories
Ensuring household documentation and compliance is maintained
Candidate Profile
Minimum 2 years’ recent experience managing a large private household (8–12 bedrooms), ideally a family or weekend residence
Highly organised with strong attention to detail
Confident leader with the ability to manage and motivate staff
Financially competent with experience overseeing budgets and purchasing
Professional, discreet, and an effective communicator
Flexible, proactive, and comfortable working hands-on when required
Experience with silver service and event organisation advantageous
Full, clean UK driving licence preferred
Access to the family SUV’s, with reasonable private use allowed.
Approx. £65k GPA