House/Estate Managers take full responsibility of oversight for a Principal’s home, contents and grounds. A House Manager is hired to care for one property, an Estate Manager cares for multiple homes travelling with or ahead of the principals as required. Both work closely with the Director of Residences and the Principals family office. House/Estate Managers have experience in setting up large, fine homes and possess a broad knowledge of hospitality, systems property/project management, along with a proven track record of successful staff and vendor management, along with oversight and implementation of continued training. They function in a manner that protects the investment in the property, ensuring that the residences, their contents and systems are properly managed and maintained, while providing outstanding personal service to the family.
General Responsibilities
Assume final responsibility for the residence’s orderly operation and meticulous appearance.
Act as main point of contact/liaison to Principals, as pertains to the function of the household.
Assist in oversight, coaching and mentoring of staff; uphold the high standards of the residence.
Create and maintain a positive atmosphere among other members of staff. Daily communication with all staff and department heads.
Effective management skills. Hold regular staff meetings / encourage communication and team work among staff.
Inspection of all household areas to insure proper cleaning and maintenance.
Coordinate meal service with chef for employer and guests.
Pro-active problem resolution with household maintenance and repairs.
Attentive high level of service to both employer and their guests.
Assistance to all household departments as required.
Coordination of all contractor and vendor appointments needed.
Management of contractor service agreements and scheduling.
Assist in coordinating of staff schedules and ensure there is adequate coverage at all times.
Coordinate and supervise the daily tasks of the household. Delegate appropriately and ensure task completion.
Answer door/phone professionally, taking correct information for Principals and documenting accordingly.
Assist in maintaining comprehensive Household Manuals, setting priorities for tasks on daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual basis.
Maintain household inventories (china, gift closet, silver, linen, glassware) and household filing system.
Assist housekeepers with large tasks and arrange white glove cleaning quarterly.
Manage and execute special projects, including organizing garage, seasonal décor.
Seamlessly provide concierge service to principals, their family members and guests.
Liaise with Principals in monitoring and managing the household budget.
Management of annual preventative maintenance programs.
Interface with outside vendors such as caterers, florists, electricians, plumbers, landscapers, etc. Schedule routine maintenance; track any emergency situation services that are provided when principal is in residence.
Coordinate with Principals regarding party planning, request specifics.
Manage shopping and personal errands for principals.
Coordinate transportation services and vehicle maintenance.
Maintain par levels of all household items.
Thorough understanding of proper cleaning products and methods for all indoor and outdoor surfaces, including fine art conservation.
Formal table service knowledge for both American and French styles a plus.