Head Butler – London & Global Travel (F1)

This is an exciting and unique opportunity to join a team of talented, dedicated and long-standing staff, and is suitable for those who enjoy a fast pace and a constantly expanding setup.

The client’s London home is in Belgravia, where a staff apartment can be made available for those who require a live-in posting. In addition to the client’s London base, there are multiple properties in the UK and worldwide, all fully staffed.

This prestigious role will be filled by an individual who can exceed expectations and bring a skilled, highly organised approach. The chosen Butler will plan ahead and always anticipate the client’s next move. You will lead service in all locations, whether supporting the Principal at home, at various office locations or whilst travelling. Given the Principal’s field of business, a degree of international travel is expected.

A considerable part of your role will involve careful, well-planned packing for trips and extensive wardrobe management (including seasonal rotation and appropriate storage of garments). You will manage all personal shopping for the Principal and his wife, and maintain close contact with favoured stores and ateliers. Knowledge of wine, cigars and cigar preparation is essential.

Regular contact with PAs, EAs, Drivers, and Pilots is required to keep the Principal’s schedule running like clockwork. Occasional driving of luxury vehicles may be required, such as picking up passengers from the helipad or assisting the Principal’s driver as needed.

Responsibilities

• Inclusive Butler/Valet responsibilities
• Leading service in all environments
• Meeting and greeting any guests in all settings
• Wardrobe care and organising any required alterations
• Planning and packing of luggage, including garments, watches, accessories, cosmetics and all personal items
• Valet duties as required, including polishing shoes and leather goods, arranging dry cleaning and organising garments, suits/tux, cufflinks, for special events
• Liaising with additional private household staff to ensure the Principal’s schedule runs like clockwork. This includes communicating with chefs about all service times, directing housekeeping, updating drivers on anticipated departures, and managing luggage inventory
• Personal shopping
• Reporting any maintenance issues to the property manager swiftly
• Setting up the suite ahead of the Principal’s arrival during periods of business travel (with the assistance of his travelling assistant)
• Ensuring the housekeeping team is overseen as required, and an eye for detail is ever-present
• Checking with guests and communicating dietary requirements ahead of time to the Head Chef and his team
• Travel – Attending a minimum of 3 F1 races per season. Additional Butlers are in place around the globe. You will not always be required to travel with the principal; however, full flexibility is expected

Key requirements

• Extensive career experience as a Butler or Butler/House Manager
• Absolute flexibility is paramount
• Strong communication skills are essential
• A respectful, team-player approach is required at all times
• Immaculate and polished personal presentation at all times
• An articulate, clear and concise manner when liaising with the Principal
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm when under pressure
• To lead by example and offer support to the wider team in all situations
• Punctuality, efficiency and acute attention to detail are essential attributes for this position
• Extensive references that speak to your skill set and capabilities
• A thorough background check
• Proven longevity in previous employment
• A clean driving license
• Experience in driving luxury vehicles preferred
• A professional approach and the ability to switch from formal to more relaxed as needed. The ability to read a room and adapt to an individual’s needs is paramount.
• A team player who is happy to work in a relatively flat hierarchy is essential.

Candidates are encouraged to apply at the earliest opportunity, as we expect a high volume of applications.

Interviews will begin immediately, with the first round hosted by the client’s senior representative.

Registered candidates should apply to kate@thestaffdirectory.com and include an application letter outlining their suitability and availability for interview.