Job description template: House Manager
A ready-to-adapt job description for a House Manager in a formal private residence, in London, Europe or the Gulf.
Adapt the sections in italics. Household roles vary more than corporate ones; precision in the brief saves everyone time.
Purpose of the role
To run the principal’s [London / Dubai] residence to the highest standard, leading the household team and ensuring the family’s home life operates smoothly, discreetly and without fuss.
Key responsibilities
- Day-to-day management of the residence, including [number] household staff: rotas, training, standards and performance
- Maintenance, contractors and property projects; opening and closing [other residences] ahead of the family’s travel
- Household budgets, purchasing, inventories and petty cash
- Guest management, entertaining and events, working with the chef and front-of-house staff
- Security and access protocols in liaison with [security team / family office]
- Vehicle, fleet and driver co-ordination
- Supplier relationships: florists, cleaners, specialist conservators, concierge services
- Supporting the Private PA with family logistics as required
Experience and skills
- Proven experience managing a formal private residence or a comparable luxury hospitality operation
- Confident leading and developing a team
- Practical knowledge of property maintenance, fine finishes and art handling
- Discreet, warm and composed; comfortable with changing plans
- [Languages]; [full driving licence]; [DBS / background checks]
Working arrangements
- [Live-in / live-out]; [days and hours]; travel with the family [frequency]
- Reports to [principal / Chief of Staff / Estate Manager]
Package
- Salary [range]; [accommodation]; [healthcare, flights, bonus]
For a conversation about what the market expects for a role of this scope, book a conversation.