As the job title implies, the primary role of an executive housekeeper is to supervise housekeeping staff. However, depending on the size of the household, this could also be a ‘hands-on’ role [typically taking care of expensive items of clothing, furniture, ornaments and paintings] or extend to other areas of household management [hiring and supervising contractors and non-housekeeping staff]. Please visit the Job Descriptions page for a full list of duties.

Also referred to as a private secretary, personal secretary or just PA, this person will manage the principal’s personal, professional and household affairs. Mainly a full-time occupation, there are part-time PAs available who divide their responsibilities between a number of families. In a small household, house management and other housekeeper jobs may also be undertaken. Duties may include secretarial work, diary management, dealing with incoming and outgoing mail, managing the household accounts, making travel arrangements, hiring and supervising contractors and organising special events. Previous experience of working in a private household is essential together with initiative and good computer skills. Please visit the Job Descriptions page for a full list of duties.

A houseman or housemaid maintains the private quarters and all guest bedrooms. They deputise for the laundress, regularly ‘spring clean’ rooms and carry out the reasonable requests of the housekeeper. They could be regarded as resident domestic helps or assistant housekeepers.  These roles are often sought in addition to other housekeeping positions and can assist with a range of housekeeper jobs.