What Roles Are Available in Ultra-High-Networth-Households

Maya Pogorzelec • May 15, 2025

The demand for exceptional land-based staff within high-net-worth environments is steadily increasing, reflecting the need for seamless management and unparalleled service in private residences across the globe. 


In this article, we will be breaking down some of the typical responsibilities and common requirements of some key roles we recruit for.  Please note this is not an extensive list, but an overview of some of the key candidates we chat to each day.


Whether you’re looking for your next position or transitioning from another industry like yachting or hotels, let’s take a look at some of the positions available and the experience you need to succeed.


Butler

The role of a Butler in a luxury household is steeped in tradition yet remains highly relevant in modern high-end living. A Butler is a household manager and a personal assistant, often overseeing the smooth running of the residence, particularly in relation to service and guest management. 


Their responsibilities can include formal table service, managing household staff schedules, overseeing inventories (wine cellars, fine linens, etc.), greeting and assisting guests, managing travel arrangements, handling household errands, and ensuring the overall presentation and smooth operation of the residence.


They typically have significant experience in formal service, ideally within private households, five-star hotels, or fine dining establishments. 


Nanny

The role of a Nanny is far more than just supporting the clients with child care; Nannies are often deeply involved in the children's upbringing, development, and well-being. The ideal Nanny is nurturing, highly responsible, proactive, and possesses excellent communication skills, both with the children and their parents.


Their responsibilities can encompass all aspects of childcare, including creating stimulating and age-appropriate activities, managing daily routines (meals, naps, hygiene), educational support, accompanying children on outings and travel, liaising with schools and tutors, and ensuring a safe and enriching environment.



Typical requirements include formal childcare certifications, experience working with children within private households, and additional skills such as specific educational backgrounds.


Estate Manager

The Estate Manager is the anchor of a large luxury property, and is responsible for the overall maintenance, operation, and staffing of the estate. 


Their responsibilities are broad, encompassing property maintenance (overseeing repairs and renovations), managing budgets and contractors, supervising household staff (housekeeping, groundskeeping, security), ensuring compliance with regulations, managing security systems, and acting as the primary point of contact for all estate-related matters.


Typically they will have a degree in facilities management, hospitality management, or a related field, along with certifications in areas such as health and safety, project management, or landscaping. 


Valet

A Valet provides highly personalised wardrobe management and care for the principal(s). 


Their responsibilities include the care, cleaning, and organisation of clothing, shoes, and accessories; managing laundry and dry cleaning; packing and unpacking for travel; maintaining inventories of wardrobes; assisting with dressing; and potentially personal shopping and styling.



Typically has formal training in wardrobe management, garment care, packing and unpacking, and potentially personal shopping is advantageous. 


Private Chef

The Private Chef in a luxury household is responsible for creating exceptional culinary experiences tailored to the specific tastes and dietary needs of the residents and their guests. 


Their responsibilities include menu planning, grocery shopping (often sourcing the finest ingredients), preparing daily meals, catering for dinner parties and events, managing kitchen inventory, maintaining a clean and organised kitchen, and adhering to the highest standards of food hygiene and safety.


Formal culinary qualifications from a recognised institution are essential, along with experience as a chef in high-end restaurants, private households, or luxury catering.


Housekeeper

In a luxury household, a Housekeeper is responsible for maintaining the immaculate cleanliness, order, and presentation of the residence. 


Their responsibilities include thorough cleaning of all areas of the residence, laundry and ironing, organising and maintaining household supplies, polishing silverware and fixtures, caring for fine linens, and reporting any maintenance issues. In larger households, a Head Housekeeper may oversee a team.



While formal qualifications may vary, significant experience in professional cleaning, ideally within private households or five-star hotels, is essential.


Personal Assistant (PA)

A PA provides comprehensive administrative, organisational, and personal support to the principal(s), ensuring the smooth management of their personal and professional lives. 


Their responsibilities can include managing complex calendars, coordinating travel arrangements, handling correspondence and emails, managing household staff schedules, running errands, organising events, managing finances and budgets, and acting as a primary point of contact.



Expected to be proficient in MS Office Suite, strong written and verbal communication skills, and possess the ability to handle sensitive information with utmost confidentiality.


Your Recruitment Partner

At Exclusive Household Cavalry, we are more than just a recruitment agency; we are dedicated partners in your career journey. 


With a deep understanding of the unique demands of both land-based and yachting roles within the UHNWI sector, we pride ourselves on connecting exceptional talent with exceptional opportunities. 


Our commitment to your success goes further than simply matching you to a role; we focus on helping individuals with the right skills needed to transition and thrive in the luxury residence sector, whilst providing support every step of the way.



To apply to any of our roles, please email your CV, references to
  info@ehc-ltd.com. We look forward to assisting you in taking the next significant step in your career.


By Charlotte Langdon July 4, 2025
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.
By Charlotte Langdon June 26, 2025
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.
By Charlotte Langdon June 10, 2025
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.
By Charlotte Langdon June 3, 2025
We are excited to offer a full-time, live-in Housekeeper/Cook position on a stunning 100-acre estate in Staffordshire, UK.
By Charlotte Langdon June 3, 2025
Are you a proactive and reliable individual looking for your next housekeeping opportunity in Mallorca? We are recruiting a Housekeeper to join a warm and respectful household, in one of Mallorca’s most beautiful villages. General Information Contract: Permanent Required Experience: Previous experience in luxury private households or superyacht housekeeping is preferred, but not essential. The House Manager is happy to train the right person with a positive attitude and willingness to learn. Working Hours: 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. No weekends. Location: Deià, Mallorca Salary: Competitive salary and package offered General Requirements: Speak English confidently Have the right to work in Spain Possess their own transport, a s the location is not accessible by public transit A proactive willingness to learn and a highly adaptable approach. Main Duties: Ensuring the residence is maintained to a consistently high and professional standard. Maintain exceptional household organization Daily cleaning tasks including laundry duties How to Apply Interested candidates are invited to apply with an up-to-date CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to info@ehc-ltd.com .
By Charlotte Langdon May 30, 2025
Are you an experienced Butler, dedicated to impeccable service, and seeking your next distinguished role? We're looking for an experienced discreet Butler to support a highly skilled team across multiple residences.
By Maya Pogorzelec May 6, 2025
Are you an experienced and energetic Personal Trainer looking for an exciting opportunity to work for UHNWIs?
By Maya Pogorzelec May 1, 2025
We have an incredible opportunity available within a private residence in Mayfair, London, for an experienced individual to join the team as a Housekeeper with formal service experience.  This is a travelling role, where you would spend up to 8 weeks of the year overseas. General Information: Contract: Permanent Location: Mayfair, London Salary: Up to £50,000 a year D.O.E Living Arrangements: It is a live-out position, so candidates should already have accommodation in London or be able to easily secure some. General Requirements: This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is flexible, adaptable, and happy for their schedule to change throughout the year depending on where you are and what is occurring. Yachting background preferred, formal training in service Main Duties: The principals are only in residence in Mayfair for approximately 90 days of the year. During this time, you would be required to work 6 days per week. For the remainder of the year when in London, you would only be required to work 3 days per week. How to Apply: We invite you to apply with an up-to-date CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to info@ehc-ltd.com .
By Maya Pogorzelec May 1, 2025
We currently have an exceptional long-term opportunity for a professional couple looking to settle into a beautiful and welcoming estate west of London.  This graceful, character-filled family home is seeking an experienced Housekeeper and Gardener/Driver/Maintenance to help manage the smooth day-to-day running of the property. General Information: Job Title: Housekeeper & Gardener/Driver/Maintenance Contract: Permanent Location: Estate west of London Living Arrangements: Beautiful private cottage on-site provided to the successful couple Salary: Starting from €55,000 per year (tax-free) General Requirements: Experience in private households or super yachts. Confident and experience driving through London traffic. We are looking for candidates who remain flexible and adaptable with working hours and schedules as needed. Main Duties: The Gardener/All-Rounder must be comfortable driving the principals to London occasionally and working different shifts. The Housekeeper will be responsible for maintaining the home to a high standard and assisting with occasional service when the principals are entertaining. The couple will work as a team to ensure everything is always running properly and things like light lightbulbs are never out. How to Apply: We invite you to apply with an up-to-date CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to info@ehc-ltd.com .
By Maya Pogorzelec May 1, 2025
We currently have an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and professional Housekeeper to join a beautiful private estate in the French countryside. This is a full-time, live-in role, and would suit someone who thrives in a high-standard environment and enjoys a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature and beauty. General Information: Job Title: Head of Housekeeping Contract: Permanent, Full-time Location: French Countryside Salary: Up to €40,000 plus bonus Living Arrangements: A charming two-bedroom cottage on-site is provided, fully equipped and ideal for someone with a partner. Partners are welcome to live on the estate at no additional cost. Our ideal candidate will have a background in private households or in the yachting industry. Main Duties: Lead the daily housekeeping operations across all properties within the estate. Set the tone and standard for assistant housekeepers and ad hoc staff. Maintain a high level of cleanliness and order, ensuring consistency throughout all residences. Learn and maintain the preferences of the principals and regular guests. Report any defects or maintenance issues clearly and promptly to the Property Manager. Manage housekeeping inventories and stock control. Oversee wardrobe management, including packing and unpacking. Provide formal table service in collaboration with the Chef during dining events. Ensure laundry and garment care are carried out to the highest standards. Welcome the principals and guests on arrival and ensure their comfort during stays. Support and liaise with the wider estate team as required. How to Apply: We invite you to apply with an up-to-date CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to info@ehc-ltd.com .
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