Head of Operations

Position : Head of Private Residence Operations & Housekeeping
Location : Central London
Employment Type : Full-time, live-out
Schedule : 5–6 days per week with flexibility (including evenings and weekends as required)

Overview

A high-profile, active family in Central London is seeking an exceptional Head of Private Residence Operations & Housekeeping to oversee the smooth running of their home. This pivotal role requires a polished, discreet, and highly experienced professional—ideally with a background as a Chief Stewardess on a superyacht or in a similar role within a large, high-end private residence. Acting as both hands-on Housekeeper and Household Manager, you will ensure the highest standards of presentation, service, and efficiency while leading a small team. This is a unique opportunity for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, combining operational excellence with refined service and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Hands-On Housekeeping: Lead by example in maintaining immaculate cleanliness, organisation, and presentation throughout the residence; actively participate in daily housekeeping duties
• Team Management: Supervise and mentor a team of 3+ Housekeepers, including scheduling, training, and performance management. Assist with coordination of other staff (drivers, chef, security) alongside the family office
• Service & Entertaining: Deliver refined, yacht-level service for both intimate family occasions and formal events (up to 30 guests, quarterly). This includes table settings, silver service, and seamless guest hosting
• Guest Relations: Act as a warm, professional, and discreet front-of-house presence, ensuring all family members and guests receive exceptional service
• Wardrobe Management: Oversee family wardrobes, including organisation, packing/unpacking for travel, garment care, and liaising with external services
• Household Operations: Manage inventories, supplies, and stock control; liaise with contractors, vendors, and service providers to oversee maintenance and repairs
• Administration & Budgets: Handle household budgets, petty cash, and associated administrative tasks with precision and accountability
• Personal Assistance: Support the Senior Private PA with errands, correspondence, and coordination of household-related events
• Confidentiality: Maintain the highest standards of discretion, professionalism, and trust at all times

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Significant experience as a Chief Stewardess on a superyacht or in a comparable senior private household role
• A polished, articulate, and welcoming manner with strong front-of-house presence
• Extensive hands-on housekeeping skills with a genuine commitment to daily involvement
• Strong leadership and team management abilities
• Proven expertise in high-level entertaining, including formal dining and silver service
• Highly organised, proactive, and adaptable, with excellent problem-solving skills
• Tech proficiency, particularly with smart home systems and household technologies
• Flexibility to meet the dynamic needs of a private family environment
• Fluent, impeccable spoken and written English
• Discretion, professionalism, and emotional intelligence
• Comfort around young children and family pets

Compensation & Benefits

• Highly competitive salary (DOE)
• Discretionary performance-related bonuses
• 25 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Additional benefits to be discussed at interview stage