House Manager

Role Overview

The House Manager will oversee the day‑to‑day operations of a high‑end private residence for an Ultra‑High-Net-Worth Individual (UHNW) family in Dubai. This role demands exceptional service orientation, professionalism, discretion, and the ability to manage a fast‑paced household environment with multicultural staff. Candidates with experience in luxury residential estates, private yachts/cruises, or hospitality leadership roles are highly preferred.

The House Manager will be responsible for delivering seamless household operations, staff management, guest services, event coordination, and ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness, service, and security.

Key Responsibilities

Household Operations

- Oversee all daily household activities to ensure smooth, efficient operations. - Maintain ultra‑luxury standards across all areas of the residence. - Develop and implement household systems, SOPs, schedules, and checklists. - Liaise with external vendors, contractors, and service providers. - Manage household inventories (supplies, linens, pantry, personal items).

Staff Management

- Lead, train, and supervise a multicultural team including housekeepers, chefs, drivers, nannies, security, and maintenance staff. - Create rosters and ensure adequate staffing at all times. - Conduct regular performance evaluations and training to maintain 5‑star service levels. - Foster a positive, professional, and high‑performance culture within the team.

Family & Guest Services

- Provide a discreet, anticipatory, and solution‑oriented service approach. - Coordinate family schedules, appointments, and special requests. - Manage VIP guest arrivals, hosting, and hospitality arrangements. - Ensure privacy, comfort, and safety of all family members.

Household Finances & Reporting

- Oversee household budgets, petty cash, and expense reports. - Track invoices, approve expenditures, and maintain accurate records. - Present regular operational reports to the Principal or Chief of Staff.

Maintenance & Property Oversight

- Ensure the residence is maintained in immaculate condition at all times. - Coordinate preventative maintenance for equipment, systems, and facilities. - Manage emergency repairs or urgent situations promptly and efficiently.

Event & Travel Coordination

- Plan and oversee family/private events hosted at the residence. - Coordinate travel logistics when required—packing, itineraries, staff assignments, and villa/yacht preparations.

Required Qualifications & Experience

- Minimum 10+ years’ experience managing a luxury private residence, estate, yacht, cruise ship, or hospitality operation. - Proven experience supervising multicultural teams. - Exceptional organizational and leadership skills. - Strong communication skills (English required; additional languages a plus). - Ability to handle confidential information with absolute discretion. - High level of emotional intelligence, professionalism, and adaptability. - Comfortable working in a live‑in arrangement (accommodation provided on the estate). - Strong understanding of Middle Eastern culture and service nuances (preferred but not mandatory).

Key Competencies

- Service‑driven mindset - Leadership & people management - Problem‑solving and decision‑making - Time management & multitasking - Cultural sensitivity - High integrity & discretion - Flexibility and calmness under pressure

Benefits

- Competitive tax‑free salary - Private accommodation + meals - Annual leave - Medical insurance + Work visa