Domestic Couple (House Manager & Housekeeper) | Wiltshire/Dorset

Overview

Our client, the owner of a stunning private estate located in the idyllic Wiltshire/Dorset border, is seeking an experienced and dedicated House Manager and Housekeeper to join their household team.

This role is ideal for a professional couple who are passionate about maintaining the highest standards of household management and care.

The successful candidates will be provided with a three-bedroom cottage on the estate and access to a car for work-related duties.

Job duties
Responsibilities of the House Manager include:

• Oversee the household staff, and ensure the smooth running of the estate accommodation and amenities
• Recruit, retain, and train staff (both temporary and long-term), create staff rotas, and hire additional staff for commercial shoots and large family events
• Lead the service of all meals, from casual family breakfasts to formal dinners, shoot lunches, BBQs, and afternoon teas
• Collaborate with the Estate Manager and Chief of Staff on house maintenance, preventative maintenance, and fault reporting
• Update household manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Manage guest visits, including meeting and greeting guests, maintaining records of visits and special requirements, and liaising with visiting guest PAs
• Handle valeting for the principal, packing and unpacking, and maintaining inventories and purchasing
• Coordinate all aspects of private and commercial shoots on the estate, including working with the Estate Manager on logistics
• Take responsibility for the wine cellar, both as a private collection and as a small commercial enterprise for shoot guests
• Improve general household efficiencies by buying effectively, monitoring inventories, liaising with chefs etc.
• Care for the family’s three Cocker Spaniels, manage household accounting, run errands, and drive when necessary

Responsibilities of the Housekeeper include:

• Maintain the cleanliness and organisation of the estate through daily cleaning, dusting, vacuuming etc, as part of a team of housekeepers
• Assist with laundry duties, including washing, ironing, and caring for fine fabrics, linens, and delicate items
• Ensure the proper care of antiques and artwork
• Occasional assistance with meal service, particularly during busy family gatherings and shoots
• Work closely with the House Manager and other staff members to ensure all areas of the estate are maintained to the highest standard

Candidates must be/have:

• UK Passport / Legal right to work in the UK
• Proven experience as a Domestic Couple within a private household or estate
• Strong attention to detail, organisational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team
• A proactive approach to tasks, demonstrating initiative and a can-do attitude
• Discretion and professionalism with a focus on maintaining the privacy and security of the household
• Valid driving licences for both individuals – highly desirable
• Flexibility to accommodate the needs and schedule of the estate

Accommodation
A three-bedroom cottage is provided on the estate. A car will be available for work-related duties.

Hours

Full-time and dependent on the Principal’s schedule.
Five days to typically include weekend duties on rotation.
The family often spends over two months a year travelling and resides in London during the week.
Overtime may be required, with time off in lieu provided.

Location
Dorset/Wiltshire border - between Shaftesbury and Salisbury.

Salary
Competitive, reflective of experience.

Job ref
CP706: Domestic Couple (House Manager and Housekeeper) on a Private Estate in Wiltshire.