We are seeking an experienced Live-in Housekeeper to join a family estate in Somerset. The successful candidate will take responsibility for the interior housekeeping, presentation and day-to-day organisation of the main residence and guest accommodation, maintaining the property to a high standard at all times.

The successful candidate must have genuine pride in their work, an exceptional eye for detail and the ability to anticipate what needs doing without being asked. The ideal candidate will be naturally proactive, discreet, organised and efficient, with the confidence to take ownership of the housekeeping operation and ensure the house is always immaculate, fully stocked, beautifully presented and ready for the family or guests.

THE PROPERTY
The estate comprises of a six-bedroom main residence, three additional cottages, gardens and grounds, stables, outbuildings, swimming pool and family dogs. The Housekeeper will work closely with the PA/House Manager and Groundsman to ensure the smooth and seamless running of the household.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Housekeeping & Presentation

• Full housekeeping of the main residence and guest cottages to a high standard
• Detailed cleaning and presentation of all bedrooms, bathrooms, living and entertaining areas
• Preparing the house and guest accommodation for family and visitors
• Maintaining an organised appearance throughout the property
• Establishing and following detailed cleaning and household schedules
• Identifying issues, maintenance requirements or areas needing attention and reporting them proactively

Laundry & Wardrobe Management

• Full responsibility for laundry, ironing and linen
• Meticulous care of delicate and high-value clothing and fabrics
• Bed making and presentation to an exceptionally high standard
• Organisation and management of linen cupboards
• Wardrobe management, including packing/unpacking and arranging dry cleaning or alterations where required

Fine Household & Specialist Care

• Appropriate care of fine art, antiques, silverware, china, crystal and specialist finishes
• Understanding when specialist cleaning or treatment is required
• Maintaining valuable furnishings and household items with appropriate care and discretion

Household Management

• Managing household supplies, inventories and stock levels
• Ordering groceries, cleaning products, toiletries and household requirements
• Managing deliveries, online shopping and household errands
• Keeping cupboards, pantries and storage areas organised
• Maintaining household inventories and relevant records
• Comfortable using household technology and managing basic issues with appliances, Wi-Fi and media systems

Cooking & Hospitality

• Preparing breakfast and assisting with simple family lunches and dinners
• Supporting food preparation and service for entertaining
• Table setting and presentation
• Welcoming and discreetly looking after guests
• Ensuring the house is fully prepared before entertaining and returned to perfect order afterwards
• Maintaining pantry, fridge, freezer and household food and drink stocks

Family & Estate Support

• Supporting the family with occasional errands where required
• Comfortable around and willing to take care of the family dogs
• Maintaining a discreet presence when the family are in residence
• Occasional travel with the family, including approximately 3–4 weeks per year to their European residence

THE STANDARD EXPECTED
The successful candidate must understand that exceptional housekeeping is about anticipation, not simply completing a list of tasks. The house should always feel immaculate, fresh, organised and completely prepared.
The Principals expect someone who will take genuine ownership of the standard of the house, paying attention to the smallest details and maintaining consistency whether the family are in residence, entertaining or away.

The ideal Housekeeper will be:

• Exceptionally detail-oriented and highly organised
• Proactive, self-motivated and able to work without supervision
• Experienced in UHNW/HNW private households or similarly high-end environments
• Calm, efficient and solution-focused
• Discreet, trustworthy and professional
• Confident with luxury laundry, wardrobe and household management
• Comfortable caring for valuable and delicate possessions
• Warm and personable but naturally unobtrusive
• A confident communicator with excellent standards of personal presentation
• Comfortable around dogs
• A non-smoker is preferred

WORKING DAYS & HOURS
Approximately 45 hours per week over five days. Flexibility is essential when the family are in residence, including two weekends per month, with time off in lieu where additional days are required. Occasional additional hours may be required around family visits, entertaining or travel.

ACCOMMODATION & PACKAGE

• £45,000–£55,000 gross per annum, depending on experience
• Private one-bedroom cottage on the estate
• Cottage includes all bills, with an approximate value of £12,000 per annum
• Long-term, permanent position
• Pets and dependants cannot be accommodated unfortunately

A full UK driving licence is preferred.