This young, active, and busy family, who has plans to be away for 137 days next year, is still looking for a replacement for their butler of 16 years, who will be retiring in the coming year. The position involves a lot of learning and many fine details. Generally, the position is 5 days a week, from Wednesday to Sunday, but it may require availability 24/7 when the family has guests or is entertaining for the holidays. The hours could vary from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., depending on whether the family is home, if there is dinner service that evening, and if there are household guests.
Greeting guests and acquainting them with their rooms and the home’s amenities is a good start. Duties include hiring and overseeing household staff. Currently, four other staff members are taking care of a 12,000 sq. ft. home from October to June, living out, in Jupiter, FL. There is also travel to a 25,000 sq. ft. estate in New Jersey, where the position would be live-in from June 1st to the end of September. Responsibilities include managing staff schedules, organizing regular dinner parties for 6-10 people, and planning large events meticulously.
The butler position requires many of the same skills as a manager, in addition to discretion, meticulous attention to detail, and food and wine pairing with the chef. The butler must be familiar with the household’s assets, including furniture care, linen care, silverware, and other valuables. The role involves negotiating with vendors, suppliers, and other service providers to obtain the best pricing and ensure the highest quality. Support is available in the family office to assist with scheduling appointments and meetings for staff or the family. The butler must also assist in organizing transportation and arrival timing for the family’s local travel, appointments, and schedules. Setting up dining spaces, and place settings, and ensuring that food and drinks are delivered promptly is essential. The position includes some cleaning duties, possibly in the master bedroom or bath, but also requires very strong skills in wardrobe care and management, including steaming, packing, and organizing.
Candidates must have at least 6 years of experience working in an estate home to be considered. Salary is based on experience and includes great benefits. The family is looking for someone who can spend another fifteen years with them.