Transitioning into a Private Household Role
While experience of working in a private household is obviously desirable when applying for roles in this sector, many people have not worked in one before. As such, we are often asked about how to transition from a “normal” job into this rarefied world. There are, we are pleased to report, many routes in, and we regularly work with candidates who, despite excelling in their chosen area, have not previously had the opportunity to work in a private household.
Some fairly obvious roles come initially to mind – for example, a housekeeper who has previously worked in a five-star hotel would likely be a good fit. This kind of skillset is often sought after, especially in more formal properties, and for some roles is even considered to be a requirement. A housekeeping role such as this could potentially be a good step up for a cleaner or junior housekeeper who wishes to work in a private residence. Another good example would be a driver who wants to become a personal chauffeur. Experience as a high-end hotel chauffeur would definitely help, but simply having all the required licences and some good corporate experience could open the private house door.
However, there are many more unconventional roles within an organisation such as a private household or estate, and some candidates might not realise that there is an excellent market for their skills in this sector. For example, we are currently assisting in the search for an occupational therapist, have previously placed physio and speech therapists, and are on occasion asked for a variety of specialised therapeutic or medical professionals. Another example is our current search for a construction project manager with a strong engineering background, being sought by a notable UHNW (Ultra-High Net Worth) family. Roles such as these might not immediately spring to mind when considering household staff, but for complex Royal or UHNW homes a wide variety of people are entirely necessary.
A background in fashion is often requested by clients who require assistance with their wardrobe – roles arise for wardrobe managers, laundresses, stylists, seamstresses, tailors and even designers. At the other end of the roster, but just as in-demand, are people with a military background, who can easily transition into close protection, security or perhaps combine these with a private chauffer’s role.
There is a rich seam of potential candidates in the wider world with the right sets of skills, even if they have not yet considered working in a private residence. Moving into such a role can be a fantastic step – many who make the transition never go back.
Pembury Partners place talented staff into all roles within the finest private households worldwide.
