Domestic Couple for Private Weekend Residence
Location | Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, UK
Salary | Highly competitive and depending on experience
Accommodation | Two-bedroom cottage + all bills included
Overview
On behalf of our European client, we are seeking a highly motivated and self-sufficient Domestic Couple to manage and maintain a Private Estate comprising three modern-tech properties, kitchen gardens, and landscaped areas.
This is a live-in, full-time Domestic Couple role offering a unique opportunity to create a way of life on the estate. The position involves overseeing various aspects of property management, maintenance, housekeeping, and collaboration with external contractors when the family are not in residence.
Whilst this is not the main residence (the family own multiple properties), when they are in residence, cooking, driving, and looking after their needs is the priority, whilst managing other duties. The ability to prioritise is key.
Energy and enthusiasm is required, along with confidence to manage and prioritise.
In summary, the position requires a balance of independence and collaboration, providing the couple the opportunity to take ownership of the estate’s day-to-day operations on the ground.
Job duties
Responsibilities of the Domestic Couple near Henley-on-Thames include:
Property Management and Maintenance
- Oversee the general upkeep and maintenance of each property and manage the relationship with contractors for annual contracted service
- Conduct regular inspections of the properties to ensure they are in pristine condition
- Perform minor repairs and liaise with specialised contractors for larger maintenance tasks
- Ensure high standards of cleanliness and presentation, including polishing and deep cleaning
Housekeeping and Cooking
- Handle daily housekeeping tasks, including laundry, cleaning, and bed preparation
- Cooking as required for the estate’s owners, family and guests
- Shopping for groceries, supplies, and other household essentials as needed
Gardening and Landscaping
- Manage and maintain kitchen gardens, ensuring they are well-tended and productive
- Collaborate with and oversee landscape contractors to ensure outdoor areas are maintained to a high standard
- Assist with occasional gardening tasks to supplement the work of contractors
- Maintain swimming pool and tennis court
Driving and Errands
- Drive locally for shopping trips, appointments, and other errands as required
- Assist with transportation of the owners or guests when needed
Candidates must be/have:
- A couple with relevant experience in live-in position to include but not limited to housekeeping, gardening, and general maintenance
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to self-manage and prioritise tasks effectively
- Practical knowledge of modern property systems, including high-tech home automation, security, and energy systems
- Housekeeping experience, with attention to detail and an eye for cleanliness
- Cooking skills, with flexibility to prepare meals when required
- Right to work in the UK or hold UK Passports
- A valid driving licence (both candidates)
Personal qualities:
- Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to take initiative
- Discrete, trustworthy, and able to maintain confidentiality
- Strong communication skills to liaise with contractors and estate residents effectively
- A positive, flexible attitude to adapt to changing needs on the estate
Contractual terms:
- Live-in position with accommodation provided on the estate
- Live-in seven days a week, with weekends off, but required to sleep on-site
- Working days Monday to Friday (40 hours per week) when the owners are not in residence
- Requirement to work weekends and longer stints, max 12 days, with time off in-lieu
- Time off includes holidays, with flexibility required when the family are in residence
- Two bedroom cottage and all bills included (pets allowed)
Accommodation
Two bedroom cottage with all bills included. Pets allowed.
Location
Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire.
Salary
Competitive and depending on experience.
Job ref
CP764: Domestic Couple for Weekend Residence in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, UK.