Types of UHNW Households: What Private Staff Can Expect
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.

UHNWI City Residences
UHNW city residences are often modern, tech-integrated, and fast-paced environments that demand a high level of adaptability from their staff.
Discretion, flexibility, and extremely high attention to detail are essential. As with many luxury households, the ability to be ‘available but invisible’ is highly valued. This is a skill that is often learnt through experience rather than taught and is highly sought after within this industry.
Working in a city residence often means adapting to the principal’s dynamic schedule. Employees may be required to work around frequent travel plans, or support a property that is only used occasionally - with the principals potentially having a primary residence elsewhere. The ability to step in seamlessly and maintain readiness at all times is key.

Gated Compounds
Gated compounds are highly secure, self-contained estates that often include multiple residences, guest villas, staff quarters, and amenities such as spas, clinics, and sports facilities.
Roles within these environments typically span several properties, requiring staff to work collaboratively across departments and within a clearly defined management structure and chain of command.
Cultural sensitivity and discretion are essential, as these compounds often accommodate principals from diverse backgrounds and involve both formal and informal service settings. Staff are frequently live-in, ensuring around-the-clock support, security, and seamless operations across the estate.

Seasonal or Multi-Home Households
Often, UHNWIs will split their time between multiple properties throughout the year from ski chalets in the Alps to villas in the Mediterranean.
Many of these seasonal or multi-home households tend to be fast-paced, with staff expected to travel or rotate between locations.
Because principals and their families spend less time in each residence, there’s a strong focus on readiness, precision, and the ability to adapt quickly. Roles within these households are typically more dynamic, with frequent change and movement, making them ideal for experienced professionals who thrive in dynamic environments.

Which is right for you?
Each UHNW household offers a unique and dynamic working environment. Depending on your personal preferences and career goals, it’s worth considering which type of setting best aligns with what you hope to gain from the role; whether it’s structure, variety, cultural exposure, or progression.
Having a trusted recruiter to guide you through these decisions is invaluable. At EHC, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.
If you’d like more information or are looking for your next role, feel free to reach out to us at info@ehc.ltd.com - we’d love to hear from you.






