For those new to household staffing, the various titles and roles can seem confusing or redundant at first glance. While there may be some overlap in duties, each position serves a distinct purpose and fits into a specific hierarchy within a well-managed household. This guide will help clarify these roles and their responsibilities.
Executive Level Positions
Chief of Staff
At the pinnacle of household staffing, the Chief of Staff serves as the primary liaison between principals (employers) and all household staff. They typically oversee multiple properties and manage both the household and business affairs of their principals.
Key responsibilities:
– Strategic planning and project management
– High-level budgeting and financial oversight
– Staff recruitment, training, and management
– Vendor relationship management
– Travel coordination for multiple properties
– Crisis management and problem-solving
– Direct liaison with family office professionals
Estate Manager
The Estate Manager oversees the operations of a single large property or estate, reporting either to the Chief of Staff or directly to the principals.
Key responsibilities:
– Property maintenance and improvements
– Staff supervision and scheduling
– Budget management for the property
– Vendor management
– Security oversight
– Event planning and coordination
– Inventory management
## Mid-Level Management
House Manager
Similar to an Estate Manager but typically managing a smaller property or working under an Estate Manager in a larger household.
Key responsibilities:
– Daily household operations
– Staff supervision
– Scheduling and calendar management
– Basic budgeting and expense tracking
– Vendor coordination
– Household inventory management
– Basic maintenance oversight
Specialized Care Providers
Newborn Care Specialist
A highly trained professional specifically focused on infant care during the first few months of life.
Key responsibilities:
– Newborn care and feeding
– Sleep training
– Parent education and support
– Development monitoring
– Establishing routines
– Overnight care
– Lactation support
Nanny
A childcare professional focused on the daily care and development of children.
Key responsibilities:
– Child safety and supervision
– Educational activities and homework help
– Meal preparation for children
– Transportation to activities
– Light housekeeping related to children
– Parent communication
– Activity planning
ROTA Nanny
A nanny who works on a rotating schedule, typically in households requiring 24/7 coverage.
Key responsibilities:
– Similar to regular nanny duties
– Follows set schedule rotation
– Provides overnight care when needed
– Maintains consistency in childcare approach
– Coordinates with other ROTA team members
Household Service Providers
Butler
Traditionally the highest-ranking member of the service staff, focusing on formal service and household standards.
Key responsibilities:
– Formal service (meals, drinks)
– Wine cellar management
– Silver and fine china care
– Staff training in service standards
– Greeting and vetting visitors
– Wardrobe care for principals
– Coordination of formal events
Personal Assistant
Focuses on the principal’s personal and professional needs, often working closely with the Chief of Staff.
Key responsibilities:
– Calendar management
– Travel arrangements
– Personal shopping
– Correspondence management
– Errand running
– Gift purchasing and wrapping
– Basic administrative tasks
Family Assistant
A hybrid role combining aspects of personal assistance and childcare.
Key responsibilities:
– Family calendar management
– Children’s scheduling and activities
– Household errands
– Light administrative work
– Transportation coordination
– Family travel planning
– Parent support
Housekeeper
Responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the home.
Key responsibilities:
– Deep cleaning
– Organization
– Laundry
– Making beds
– Bathroom and kitchen sanitization
– Window cleaning
– Basic tidying
Ladies Maid
A specialized role focusing on personal service to female principals.
Key responsibilities:
– Wardrobe care and organization
– Packing and unpacking
– Personal shopping assistance
– Dressing assistance
– Beauty and wellness appointments
– Personal laundry and garment care
Laundress
Specializes exclusively in garment care and maintenance.
Key responsibilities:
– Washing and drying
– Ironing and pressing
– Stain removal
– Garment repair
– Seasonal clothing storage
– Wardrobe organization
– Special fabric care
Chef
Responsible for all aspects of food service in the household.
Key responsibilities:
– Menu planning
– Grocery shopping
– Meal preparation
– Special dietary requirements
– Kitchen management
– Food storage and safety
– Special event catering
Yacht Crew
Specialized staff for maritime households, with their own internal hierarchy.
Key responsibilities:
– Navigation and boat operation
– Maritime safety
– Vessel maintenance
– Guest service
– Maritime housekeeping
– Food service at sea
– Water sports and activities
Understanding the Hierarchy
The household staffing hierarchy typically follows this structure:
1. Chief of Staff
2. Estate Manager
3. House Manager
4. Butler
5. Specialized Service Providers (Chef, Newborn Care Specialist)
6. Personal/Family Assistants
7. Nannies
8. Housekeepers/Laundress
9. Support Staff
Why Different Titles Matter:
1. Scope of Responsibility: Titles reflect the breadth and depth of responsibility. A Chief of Staff manages multiple properties and staff, while a House Manager focuses on a single property.
2. Expertise Required: Different roles require specific training and expertise. A Newborn Care Specialist has extensive training in infant care, while a Nanny might have broader childcare experience.
3. Salary Implications: Titles often correlate with compensation levels, reflecting the required expertise and responsibility level.
4. Authority Structure: Titles help establish clear reporting lines and authority within the household.
5. Industry Standards: Standardized titles help employers and employees understand expectations and requirements across different households.
6. Professional Development: Clear title distinctions allow staff members to plan career progression and skill development.
Understanding these distinctions helps both employers and employees maintain professional standards and clear expectations in the household staffing industry.