Head Housekeeper

Location: Surrey, UK

Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Reporting To: Estate Manager

Salary: £50,000+ per annum DOE, with option to live-in - separate accommodation on the estate

About the Role:

Tiger Private are seeking an experienced, discreet and highly organised Housekeeper to join a private Estate in Surrey. This is a hands-on role requiring a high standard of work across all areas of the Estate and surrounding properties. The ideal candidate will take genuine pride in their environment, be adaptable to the needs of the households and be comfortable working with a degree of autonomy.

The Housekeeper will be the primary point of responsibility for the day-to-day running of the domestic environment and will work closely with the Estate Manager to ensure the highest standards are maintained at all times.

Key Responsibilities:

Cleaning & Housekeeping

• Carry out thorough daily cleaning of all rooms, including reception rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms and service areas to a consistently high standard.
• Undertake periodic deep-cleaning tasks, including windows, skirting boards, upholstery, carpets and hard floors.
• Care for fine furnishings, antiques, silverware and other valuables in accordance with appropriate methods.
• Maintain the cleanliness and tidiness of staff and utility areas.

Cooking & Meal Preparation

• Prepare fresh, home-cooked meals for the Principal and household, according to tastes and dietary requirements.
• Maintain the kitchen to an impeccable standard, including appliances, equipment and food storage.
• Cater for guests when required, with the ability to present food attractively and manage informal entertaining.

Laundry & Ironing

• Manage all household laundry, including bed linen, towels and personal clothing.
• Demonstrate care and knowledge of fabric types, caring for fine materials, delicate items and formal wear correctly.
• Ensure all items are laundered, ironed and returned promptly and in perfect condition.
• Oversee dry-cleaning requirements and liaise with external providers as needed.

Household Administration

• Manage household supplies and consumables, maintaining appropriate stock levels and placing orders as needed.
• Liaise with tradespeople, suppliers and service providers, coordinating access and ensuring works are completed satisfactorily.
• Monitor household maintenance requirements and report issues promptly to the Estate Manager.
• Assist with household inventories, seasonal preparations (e.g. opening and closing of rooms) and the organisation of storage.
• Maintain a household diary of recurring tasks and upcoming requirements.

Skills Required:

Essential

•  Proven experience in a similar role within a private household, hotel or equivalent high-standard environment.

•  Demonstrable cooking ability with confidence preparing a range of cuisines and catering styles.

•  Excellent knowledge of cleaning methods, products and the care of fine materials and surfaces.

•  High attention to detail and a consistently high personal standard.

•  Discreet, trustworthy and respectful of the privacy of the household at all times.

•  Reliable, self-motivated and able to manage time effectively without close supervision.

•  Flexible attitude to working hours and adaptable to the changing needs of a private home.

•  Right to work in the United Kingdom.

Desirable

•  Formal culinary training or a relevant qualification.

•  Experience of a live-in domestic position.

•  Full UK driving licence.

•  First aid certificate or willingness to obtain one.

Working Arrangements

Working hours will be agreed with the successful candidate and will reflect the needs of the household. The role is full-time and flexibility around evenings and weekends is expected, particularly during the residence of the Principal or during household events. Appropriate rest days will be agreed and provided.

The position is offered on either a live-in or live-out basis. Where live-in accommodation is provided, full details including any terms relating to accommodation will be set out in the employment contract.

MW 208370