Salary transparency in private staffing: Why it matters for retention
Charlotte Langdon • August 4, 2025
In private staffing, salary transparency isn’t about publishing pay scales, it’s about setting clear, aligned expectations between client and candidate from the outset, particularly as roles become more complex and tailored.
Salaries, and whether or not the industry is keeping up, are a hot topic and gaining momentum. Demands are increasing, expectations are higher than ever, and staff are negotiating salaries that reflect these shifts. As mentioned in our recent article, What You Expect and How We Deliver It, we’re seeing a steady rise in requests for hybrid roles, house managers who can also plan and manage events, for example. Naturally, dual or blended responsibilities are one reason salaries are expected to rise across the board.
So, does being clear about salary expectations from the outset really make a difference to how long staff stay?
The Link Between Transparency and Retention
When employers are open and honest about salaries, bonuses, benefits, and what progression really looks like, it naturally creates a sense of trust. That trust forms the foundation of stronger, more stable relationships between clients and their staff.
As private staffing recruiters, we see first-hand how this kind of transparency positively impacts household dynamics especially in UHNW environments. We’re often seeing clients take a clearer approach to pay discussions with both existing staff and new hires.
Why? To avoid dissatisfaction and, ultimately, reduce the risk of high staff turnover.
Retention matters. It saves time, money, and it allows deeper, long-term relationships to form within the household. Staff who feel genuinely valued and who receive salaries that reflect the current demands of the industry are far more likely to stay in their roles long term.
Balancing Discretion and Clarity
Despite the growing importance of clarity and transparency, discretion still plays a vital role in UHNW households and full salary disclosure may not be the right fit for every client.
That said, there are still effective ways to provide your staff with the clarity they’re looking for. This could include structured pay brackets, clearly defined progression pathways, and tailored bonus schemes.
We regularly support both clients and candidates with conversations around salary, contracts, bonuses, and how these can evolve, particularly once a candidate has passed probation, exceeded expectations, or hit agreed performance targets.
The Impact of Transparency
If you’re looking to improve retention within your private household or estate, offering greater transparency around salaries can be a powerful step towards building trust and long-term stability within your team.
Retention is key to the smooth running of any household, and essential for maintaining long-term stability and discretion.
Other ways we recommend clients improve staff retention include introducing transparency in other key areas. For example, implementing performance reviews every six months helps ensure both staff and principals are aligned, with a clear understanding of expectations and needs on both sides. Similarly, creating a safe working environment where staff feel comfortable raising concerns and know they’ll be listened to builds trust and loyalty.
At EHC, we understand the need to strike the right balance between clarity and discretion and we encourage open conversations about how that balance can work in each unique household.
When pay is clear, trust follows and with trust comes longevity.
For a confidential conversation, feel free to get in touch with us at info@ehc-ltd.com.
What You Expect - And How We Deliver It: Private Staffing for the World’s Most Discerning Households
We understand that as a UHNW individual or family office, you need more than just staff. You require discretion at the highest level, true flexibility, and service that feels effortless. Building your household team isn’t just about hiring, it’s about protecting your family’s privacy, values, and way of life. Expectations around service, loyalty, and professionalism are constantly evolving, which is why the way staff are selected and trained is key to creating a trusted, high-performing team. Multi skilled staff The highest level of private staff are rarely one-dimensional. A house manager with a refined understanding of personal service, or a PA with a background in events management - these multi-skilled professionals are increasingly in demand. At EHC , we consistently see clients seeking candidates who bring a broad range of expertise and the adaptability to support dynamic household needs with efficiency and discretion. We understand the importance of this versatility and represent an elite pool of candidates whose experience spans multiple roles and specialisms. From those who have extensive experience in demands of formal service to professionals with operational, travel, or management backgrounds; our selected talent is equipped to confidently join high performing households where adaptability is key. Discretion is non negotiable Discretion is non-negotiable when it comes to staffing your private household but emotional intelligence is what ensures longevity and that your expectations are consistently met. The key is retaining staff who can instinctively navigate high-pressure environments, understand unspoken boundaries, and adapt effortlessly to change whilst still being able to provide the highest level of service and provide support without it being asked for. Bespoke Private Staff training Because every household and family office is different, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all training . At EHC , we provide bespoke service training tailored to the unique requirements of each residence, estate, or principal. Whether your team needs to refine formal service standards, adapt to a specific cultural protocol, or develop skills for multi-residence coordination, we design and deliver training that reflects your environment and expectations. Our goal is to ensure that every staff member performs with confidence, precision, and presents a deep understanding of your personal standards from day one - whether that be through online training courses or bespoke on site training. How we support you At EHC , we’ve had the privilege of supporting some of the world’s most prestigious families and estates. With deep experience in luxury household management, we understand what it takes to elevate your private staffing and domestic operations to the highest standard. We take the time to listen closely and tailor our approach to your unique requirements. Backed by a trusted global network of trainers, consultants, accountants, and legal experts, we deliver a truly bespoke service that reflects the individuality and discretion our clients deserve. Contact us at info@ehc- ltd.com for a confidential discussion.
We are seeking two dedicated and service-driven Junior Butlers to join a prestigious household in Johor, Malaysia. This role supports the principals and their four children. The Principals are a dynamic young couple with high expectations for professionalism, discretion, and service excellence. One position is urgent, while the second is less time-sensitive but still required. Position : 2 x Junior Butlers Contract : Full-Time, Live-In or Housing Allowance Provided Location : Johor, Malaysia Start Date : ASAP (One urgent position) Salary : Starting at €2,500-€3,000/month (negotiable) Key Responsibilities: Deliver seamless 7-star butler service to the principals and their family Work on a 2 days on / 2 days off rotation (subject to change) Support daily routines, events, and travel coordination Provide exceptional guest service and hospitality Maintain utmost discretion and high household standards Travel internationally and domestically as needed Requirements Male candidates only (at client’s request) Strong background in butlering or luxury service Energetic, personable, and passionate about service Respectful of culture and comfortable working in a predominantly Malay-speaking team Must be willing to travel to Malaysia for a final in-person interview — non-negotiable Package Includes Competitive salary Private accommodation or housing allowance 28 days annual leave 1x annual return flight home Vehicle provided Full visa and work permit support This is an exceptional opportunity to join a loyal, generous, and highly professional household. Personality fit and chemistry with the family and existing team are essential. To apply please share your CV and references to info @ehc-ltd.com
As the luxury private household sector continues to evolve, it is becoming increasingly common for experienced superyacht crew to transition ashore into roles within ultra high net worth (UHNW) residences. The values that define both worlds, discretion, precision, adaptability, and commitment to service excellence, make this a natural and seamless progression. At Exclusive Household Cavalry (EHC), we work with many clients who specifically seek former yacht crew for private household positions. The transferable skills gained at sea, such as high level service delivery, outstanding attention to detail, and the ability to operate under pressure, translate effortlessly to land-based roles. In this article, we explore the strong synergy between the superyacht and private household sectors, and how hiring ex-yacht crew can significantly elevate the standards within your household team. The Value Yachting Backgrounds Many of our UHNW clients are increasingly drawn to candidates with a yachting background, thanks to the exceptional training, high standards, and remarkably strong work ethic developed during life at sea. Former yacht crew are equipped to thrive in fast paced, high pressure environments, adapting swiftly to last minute changes with calm, capable professionalism. Their experience often instills a sense of loyalty and long term dedication, qualities that are rare and invaluable in private staffing. Even those in more temporary roles often bring an energetic dynamism and level of flexibility that can be difficult to find elsewhere. Being constantly available yet completely discreet is something yacht crew often master. This quiet, polished presence, often described as invisible service, is nearly impossible to teach and can only be refined in the most elite and demanding environments. Shared Values and Transferable Skills Many yacht roles naturally lend themselves to private household positions. For example, pursers and chief steward/esses who often act as interior managers on board can be a great fit for house manager roles. They are used to leading teams, handling budgets, organising schedules, and making sure everything runs smoothly to a very high standard. They are also quick to adapt to the needs of principals and guests and always maintain the highest level of service. This kind of hands-on experience translates incredibly well to managing a busy UHNW household or estate. The ability to anticipate needs, manage changing priorities, and deliver consistently high standards is deeply embedded in yachting culture, making these individuals an excellent asset to land-based roles. Cultural Fit Former yacht crew often bring a high level of emotional intelligence and refined people skills, making them an excellent cultural fit within UHNW households. Their familiarity with international protocols, etiquette, and diverse cultural norms enables them to integrate seamlessly into households with global lifestyles. Just as they adapt to the fast paced and demanding nature of life onboard, they transition smoothly into the rhythms, preferences, and expectations of private family life, often anticipating principals’ needs before they are even expressed. Why You Should Consider Ex-Yacht Crew Ex-yacht crew offer a truly valuable combination of skills and experience that align perfectly with the demands of private household roles. Having worked closely with UHNWI and their guests, they are trained to operate at the highest level of service, often under intense pressure and with absolute attention to detail. One of the most important qualities they bring is discretion, an essential part of life at sea and equally crucial in a private household environment. This deep understanding of privacy, professionalism, and personal service makes them highly sought after by principals. At EHC , as part of the Yacht Crew Recruitment & Training (YCRT) group, we are uniquely positioned to connect clients with a strong network of ex-yacht crew who are ready to bring their expertise ashore. Many of our candidates already have direct experience working in private villas and estates during off-season periods, where they have proven their ability to transition seamlessly into household settings while maintaining the same level of professionalism. We take great care in vetting and selecting candidates who are not only experienced but also the right fit for each household. Whether you are looking to refine your existing team, provide training for current staff, or build a new household structure from the ground up, EHC is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us for more information at info@ehc-ltd.com.
We are seeking an energetic and experienced House Manager to oversee the daily operations of a private estate in Los Angeles, California. This is a unique opportunity to support a dynamic and respectful UHNW family. The role will suit someone with a strong service mindset, a background in yachting or luxury households, and the ability to take initiative while remaining discreet and professional. Position: House Manager Location: Los Angeles, California Contract Type: Full-time Salary : Very competitive Key Responsibilities: You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of day-to-day operations at a beautifully maintained private residence. Duties include vendor management, staff coordination, inventory and household supply tracking, scheduling property maintenance, and ensuring the home is guest- and principal-ready at all times. Travel coordination, occasional event oversight, and liaising with the family office will also be part of the role. This is a hands-on position requiring a high level of autonomy, discretion, and adaptability. Ideal Candidate Profile: The ideal candidate has previous yachting or UHNW estate experience, takes pride in creating seamless experiences, and is physically fit with a ‘can-do’ attitude. A positive presence, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to maintain discretion are all essential. You’ll be expected to handle last-minute changes calmly and ensure the household runs smoothly whether the principals are in residence or not. Additional Information: This is a long-term role for someone looking to transition ashore or grow within a private estate setting. The principals are low-key but expect high standards, and appreciate loyal, professional staff who are proactive and trustworthy. We invite you to apply by sharing your CV and references to info@ehc-ltd.com
We are seeking an experienced and highly capable House Manager to oversee the daily operations of two newly built private residences in Aspen, Colorado. This is a unique opportunity to step into a newly created role and build a service-driven household from the ground up for a respectful and discreet VVIP family. The homes will primarily be used by the principals and their adult daughters as a relaxed yet high-standard retreat. If you are mature, detail-oriented, and thrive in a luxury environment, this role is for you. Position : House Manager Contract type : Full time Application requirements: Minimum 3+ years’ experience managing private homes or luxury yachts. US Citizenship or Green Card required. Strong English language skills. Salary : Very competitive Key Responsibilities: You will be responsible for the seamless day-to-day management of two adjacent residences in Aspen (each with 3–4 bedrooms and bathrooms). Your duties will include overseeing all household operations, implementing high-standard service protocols, sourcing and managing staff (as needed), coordinating with external vendors and maintenance teams, managing budgets and inventory, and preparing the properties for family arrivals. This is a hands-on role requiring initiative, foresight, and the ability to work autonomously while liaising with the family office. Ideal Candidate Profile: We are looking for a mature and discreet professional with a polished yet relaxed approach to service. You should have a background in managing private residences or luxury properties, be adaptable, and confident setting up systems and procedures from scratch. A calm and unflappable nature is essential, along with strong communication skills and a service-oriented mindset. Additional Information: The principals (aged 60–65) and their two adult daughters will use the Aspen homes as secondary residences. They value privacy, respect their staff, and prefer a high-end service approach delivered in a relaxed manner. There are no pets on site, and while guests may occasionally visit, formal entertaining is minimal. This is an exciting opportunity to work with an appreciative family in one of the most sought-after locations in the US. We invite you to apply by sharing your CV and references to info@ehc-ltd.com
We are seeking a highly capable Personal Assistant to support a dynamic family based in Mallorca. This is a varied position requiring flexibility, initiative, and a can-do attitude. A large part of the role involves coordinating and managing complex international travel plans. The position is primarily based in Mallorca, with frequent travel. Position : Personal Assistant Contract type : Full time / Live out Application requirements: Must be based in Mallorca with the right to work Salary : Competitive Key Responsibilities: You will be responsible for supporting this dynamic family across both their personal and business needs. The role involves frequent travel throughout the year, along with managing calendars, planning detailed itineraries, coordinating family travel, and overseeing a range of day-to-day duties. Ideal Candidate Profile: Fluency in Mallorquin and own transport on the island Fluent in English (Spanish a bonus) Experience as a private PA Full EU/Spanish driving licence Highly organised with experience managing international travel plans Strong multitasking and problem-solving abilities High level of discretion and professionalism Background or interest in fashion preferred Additional Information: This is a highly flexible, on-the-go role requiring someone who is adaptable, confident, and happy to pitch in wherever needed. A fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, creative environment and enjoys variety in their day-to-day. We invite you to apply by sharing your CV and references to info@ehc-ltd.com
We are seeking a skilled and experienced Dog Specialist ready to relocate to a prestigious VVIP household in the Middle East. This is an exceptional opportunity to work in a private, high-standard environment caring for beloved dogs (Labradors) in one of the world’s most exclusive households. If you are passionate about elite-level pet care and thrive in professional, discreet setting, this role is for you. Position: Dog Groomer/ Trainer/ Walker/ Carer Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent (3-month probation period) Start Date: As soon as available Application Requirements: Minimum 3 years’ experience in luxury pet care or private household, certified in grooming or training preferred Salary: €5,000 + per month (Tax-Free) TBD based on experience and qualifications. Benefits: Private, live-in accommodation provided (Downtown location) All travel and transportation expenses One annual return flight home Living expenses partially covered Frequent international travel with the family 30 days holidays + Middle Eastern religious holidays Key Responsibilities: You will be responsible for delivering exceptional, luxury-level care to the household’s beloved dogs; from daily grooming and coat maintenance to personalized training using positive reinforcement techniques. Your day-to-day will include organising walks, play sessions, and exercise routines, while closely monitoring health, managing nutrition, and maintaining top hygiene standards. You will work alongside a dedicated household team and trusted vets to ensure every aspect of the dogs’ wellbeing is covered. This is a hands-on, dynamic role that includes regular international travel with the family, offering variety, challenge, and the chance to be part of a truly unique lifestyle. Ideal Candidate Profile: We are looking for someone fluent in English, confident, and naturally discreet, with a polished and professional presence. You should be comfortable working in high-standard private settings, maintaining confidentiality and composure at all times. A valid passport and a flexible approach to frequent global travel are essential, as is the ability to adapt quickly and work independently. Certification in Pet CPR or First Aid is a strong advantage, and above all, you must have a genuine love for animals and the drive to deliver exceptional care in a fast-paced, elite environment. Additional Information: Join a highly professional and respectful household team providing top-tier care to VVIP family pets. The ideal candidate will be calm, discreet, and confident in delivering luxury care standards in a fast-paced, global environment. If you have all of the above requirements and relevant experience, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please send us your CV to info@ehc-ltd.com
Have you ever wondered what happens after you've secured a position in a private household, residence, or estate? Many people think that a recruiter's role finishes as yours begins. At EHC we believe in the success that comes after you have secured your new role and that ongoing support can be the difference between a short-term placement and a long-term, fulfilling career. So, what should you expect from your recruiter after placement? Training and Development Even after you’ve stepped into your new role, your growth doesn't stop. Many principals choose to invest in the professional development of their household teams, and training can play a key role in your long-term success. Whether it's refreshing your service skills, adapting to new household standards, or preparing for a more senior position, training ensures you continue to evolve in your career. At EHC we work closely with households to recommend and coordinate tailored programmes that align with both their needs and your professional goals. Knowing that this support is available helps you feel confident, prepared, and empowered in your new role. Career Guidance Adjusting to a new household environment can be exciting and sometimes challenging. Therefore, having a recruiter who checks in after placement matters. It is crucial to have a support system that helps you navigate performance reviews, discuss career goals, or even reassess your placement if it’s not the right fit. We believe in maintaining an open line of communication to ensure you’re thriving in this next step of your career. Our team is always available as a point of contact, offering guidance whenever you need this. SOPs and Household Integration When you join a new household, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are often in place, but not always clear. You should feel confident and well-informed when stepping into your new role. Having clearly defined procedures and expectations helps remove guesswork, prevent miscommunication, and build trust between you and your employer. It also allows you to integrate smoothly into the household structure, understand your responsibilities from day one, and deliver service that meets or exceeds expectations. Our team supports households in refining or establishing SOPs to ensure clarity, consistency, and professionalism. This structured approach enables you to settle in faster, perform with confidence, and create a strong foundation for long-term success. Why This Matters We understand that your career in private service isn’t just about securing the job, it’s about building longevity. That’s why it’s important to align yourself with a recruiter that offers more than just placement. At EHC, we believe in the power of creating long-lasting relationships. We offer support, mentorship, and tailored guidance and training long after you’ve started your role. If you're considering your next move or want to know more about what we offer after placement, our team is here for a confidential chat. Reach us at info@ehc-ltd.com to find out more.
Have you ever considered working within the private household sector and wondered what this really looks like? In this article we delve into the different types of UHNW (ultra-high-net-worth) households, the differences between them and what to expect in each unique employment setting. Each elite household can vary dramatically in terms of culture, expectations, formality, and scale and it is crucial for private household staff to understand and appreciate these differences. Royal residences and palaces Royal households are among the most formal and structured environments within the UHNW world and perhaps the most traditional luxury household settings. Protocols, uniforms, and rank-based service are standard, and staff typically operate within clearly defined roles as part of larger teams. Discretion is essential and loyalty and longevity within the household is highly valued. This is often rewarded, with many staff enjoying long-term careers and opportunities for progression within the residence. Working in a royal setting requires professionalism, attention to detail, and a deep respect for tradition and discretion.
Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, weighing the appeal of an exciting, new temporary opportunity against the stability and long-term growth promised by a permanent role? It’s a common dilemma, and finding the perfect balance between stability and diverse experience can feel like a continuous challenge. The traditional career path is evolving, and the private household sector is no exception. Employers often seek candidates who possess the dynamic adaptability gained from temporary work, alongside the loyalty and longevity that comes from sustained commitment. In this blog, we'll delve into why this balance matters, exploring the unique benefits and challenges of both temporary and long-term roles, and how you can strategically navigate your career to achieve both. The Benefits of Temping Temporary employment can unlock a wealth of opportunities and often serve as an excellent entry point into the industry. These positions often provide higher compensation, given the inherent compromise on long-term stability. Beyond financial benefits, the exposure to multiple families or principals over a period of time can become an incredible opportunity for both personal growth and professional networking. Operating in diverse environments allows you to develop remarkable flexibility and agility that will significantly enhance your CV and appeal to future employers. Embracing short-term roles can also give you more flexibility in your personal life and greater control over your work-life balance. This can be incredibly appealing, compared to the demanding hours and limited time off often associated with permanent contracts. It's worth noting that this flexibility isn't always just a benefit for the candidate; it's often a strategic choice for the employer as well. Many households recruit on a temporary basis with the intention of offering a permanent contract once the initial term concludes. This allows the principal to ensure their needs are truly met and that the temporary staff member integrates into the household's unique requirements. Given these possibilities, it could be beneficial not to disregard temporary opportunities, even if your career goal is to build longevity on your CV. The Value of Longevity Despite the clear appeal of short-term roles, clients often value stability and loyalty deeply. Given the significant time and financial investment involved in recruitment, proven longevity is often highly sought-after when reviewing CVs. Permanent contracts offer considerable scope for career progression and increased responsibility within a single role. Beyond that, the chance to develop a profound understanding of a specific household's unique preferences can become incredibly desirable for your next career move. There are also various financial benefits to developing trust and loyalty with one principal. Bonus structures and pay increases are often popular once probation periods have been completed, and there are often opportunities to develop and train alongside their other staff and household members. Every private household will operate with its own distinct routines and the ability to seamlessly integrate with these is highly beneficial. Principals and Heads of Department (HODs) often seek candidates' longer term commitment because it leads to the knowledge of unspoken routines, consistent service styles, and reduced training burdens. The Challenges While temporary contracts offer the flexibility many professionals seek, this lifestyle inevitably comes with its own set of compromises. Constantly moving from one household to another means facing different on-boarding processes and unique family dynamics with every new adventure. Additionally, it can make it more challenging to create deep connections with colleagues and principals. If navigating between temporary roles introduces uncertainty, does a long-term commitment offer a completely flawless career path? Not necessarily. Even the most stable roles can present their own challenges. Committing to a full-time, permanent position can sometimes lead to the risk of stagnation, potentially limiting professional opportunities outside of your current role. As mentioned, the traditional career path is ever-changing, with new opportunities constantly emerging. At EHC , we believe that finding a strategic balance between loyalty, longevity and adaptability is crucial for elevating your career within the private household industry. It's not about choosing one path over the other, but rather about creating a successful combination of both. This might involve strategically blending temporary and permanent roles throughout your career, or it could mean demonstrating adaptability within a long-term role - for example, if your principal frequently changes locations or lifestyle. Finding the Balance So, how do you find that sweet spot to create the most effective career strategy? It really comes down to personal preference and which work environment suits you best. At EHC , we encourage all candidates to explore both career paths with intention. It's crucial to first understand what you aim to gain from working within the industry, and then to make choices that align with your goals. Naturally, the right path for you may also shift over time as you progress through various roles, gain experience, and as your personal priorities evolve. Cultivating a relationship with a recruiter you trust, one who truly understands your individual career aspirations, is key. If you are looking for the ideal role to elevate your career, we invite you to connect with us at info@ehc-ltd.com . Our team of professionals are ready to provide expert guidance and dedicated support throughout your land-based journey.