Fred, a senior steward at a prestigious golf club in Surrey, England approached me with a unique challenge. He had been offered the opportunity to interview for a Butler position with one of the club's regular guests, a renowned ultra-high-net-worth entrepreneur. Fred was excited but apprehensive; he had no clear understanding of the expectations for a butler and was unsure how to navigate this transition.
At the time, I was serving as a House Manager in Westminster, London, and I immediately recognized the potential in Fred’s ambition.
Steward to Butler
With enthusiasm, I encouraged Fred to pursue this opportunity and offered to prepare him over three evenings, dedicating 90 minutes each session to guide him through the essentials. Our focus began with distinguishing the roles of a Steward and a Butler, as I explained the critical shift in mindset, attitude, and perception required to excel in a Butler's role. Once Fred grasped these foundational changes, I concentrated on three core skills every Butler must master, ensuring he was not overwhelmed but rather equipped with the most impactful competencies.
I provided Fred with insights into the subtleties of body language and the specific verbal cues appropriate for high-end service environments. The transformation was remarkable. Fred had a strong hospitality background hence could connect to the traits swiftly.
Fred’s confidence grew, and he approached his interview not just as a steward seeking a promotion but as a prospective Butler ready to fulfill the role with dignity and precision.Today, Fred is still with the same employer for over seven years, travels around the world with his work, earns 3X, as he did, has a high society lifestyle.
A testament to the power of taking action when you want something. Approach the right guidance, with the right mindset and learn skills, even a seemingly daunting career leap can lead to lasting success.
After all what do you have to loose, You just gain by taking the leap.
Daniel, a dedicated Hungarian professional, was working as a concierge at a hotel that was acquired by Middle Eastern owners and subsequently closed for renovations
With all employees made redundant, Daniel found himself navigating a challenging job market. By the time we met, he was working as a telephone operator for a company contracted by the renowned Dorchester Hotel in London, far from his passion for the concierge role he loved.
Daniel was referred to me through a mutual friend, and during our initial conversations, he expressed an interest in transitioning into a household role as a houseman or butler—a career path influenced by his mother's suggestion.
As we spoke further, it became clear that Daniel did not fully grasp the demands of a household position.
To help him gain clarity, I arranged a visit to a large house in Marylebone, where I walked him through the potential tasks and responsibilities of the roles he was considering.
After experiencing the environment firsthand, Daniel realized that household service was not his calling. What stood out during our discussions was Daniel’s genuine enthusiasm for being a concierge—a role that brought him true joy and showcased his versatility.
His challenge, however, was re-entering this profession after more than three years away, during which time the competitive landscape had only intensified.
Together, we delved into assignments to identify the root of Daniel’s setbacks. It became apparent that his difficulties in presenting himself stemmed from a misunderstanding of what UK employers were seeking—perceptions that may have worked in Hungary but were less effective in the UK context.
We dedicated hours to refining his responses and interview skills, focusing on how he could better align his presentation with employer expectations. Armed with a tailored strategy to navigate his return to five-star hospitality, Daniel was determined to reclaim his career.
Within ten weeks of our sessions, Daniel secured his first concierge position after over three years, and within eight months, he had landed a coveted role in a five-star hotel. It is sad that how many of us take our dreams to our graves. We can get what we want, just work out a way and put in the efforts to get qualified for it to come to us.
A year later, Daniel invited my family and me to dinner at the beautiful hotel terrace where he now thrives. His journey is a powerful testament to the impact of clear guidance, self-discovery, and the right preparation. Daniel's success story is a example of how reconnecting with one’s passion and having a clear strategy can lead to personal and professional fulfillment. How identifying and investing a very small part of your life with a mentor can realize your values.
Revitalizing a Country Estate in Buckinghamshire (2008)In 2008, I received an unexpected invitation to an office on Baker Street, London.
It was from a gentleman I had not heard from in over three years, with the initial contact made by his Executive Assistant.
Upon arrival and after exchanging pleasantries, I was presented with a brochure showcasing his country home in Buckinghamshire—a stunning Georgian estate with Victorian interiors.
The gentleman a titled British billionaire, offered me the position of Butler, my first role within a private household. My brief was straightforward yet significant: to manage the property and provide care for the principals during their weekend visits. I accepted the role, fully committing my heart and expertise to the task.
Initially, the estate, though impressive and private, lacked vitality and allure. I commenced by meticulously restoring the interiors: polishing floors, revitalizing the brass girdles, and organizing and allocating spaces efficiently.
I decluttered, restocked the kitchen, and engaged reliable contractors to rejuvenate the gardens. Gradually, I expanded my efforts to the property's periphery and beyond, ensuring every corner of the estate was attended to.
Within six months, the estate gleamed with newfound elegance, and after a year, it had transformed into a haven that the family and their extended relations cherished. My principle, I will do whatever can bring value to my position and the lives of those whom I touch. My dedication was recognized after two years when I received an 85% increase in my wages, along with an upgraded cottage for accommodation.
Managing a Historic House in Mayfair,
London As the inaugural House Manager of a grand historic Grade 1 listed property in Mayfair, London—renovated by a prominent family—I undertook the task of establishing operational systems and assigning staff responsibilities. The first six months were dedicated to resolving various technical and operational issues in this highly sophisticated home, ensuring a seamless living experience for the principals.Approximately a year into my role, I identified a significant oversight: the property's electricity meter was being charged at commercial rates, which are notably higher than residential rates. Given that the bills were paid via direct debit, this discrepancy had gone unnoticed by the principals, resulting in substantial overpayments.
Upon discovering this, I took immediate action. I contacted the electricity company and pursued the matter, advocating for a correction to the billing rate. My relentless follow-ups and attention to detail eventually paid off; the company acknowledged the error and refunded the discrepancy, amounting to a substantial £13,500.While the principals are affluent, all value financial prudence. They surround themselves with individuals who demonstrate respect and care for their resources. Our employers trust us to look after their welath and their family well being.
The importance of vigilance and proactive management in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of a high-value estate is crucial. My actions contributed to securing a trusting relationship with the PA of the principals, as she initially tried to chase the company and had it handed to me. Further on I learnt about many issues with the tech side of things, being a very old house the companies and we learnt the issue as went. For example the remote signals will not go through the walls as they were very thick etc. Persistence prevailed and we could almost get all glitches sorted within a year. The PA and the principals treasured the diligence and accountability I brought to the role.
Revitalizing a Country Estate in Buckinghamshire In 2008, As a first employment in the private household, , I was presented with an opportunity. A country home in Buckinghamshire—a stunning Georgian estate with Victorian interiors, a 250 acre property with lodges. The gentleman a titled British billionaire, offered me the position of Butler. I have served this gentleman in the past on the cruise ships in the capacity of his Pent house Butler about 5 years prior to this invite.
The brief was straight forward yet significant: to manage the property and provide care for the principals during their weekend visits. I accepted the role, fully committing my heart and mind to the task. The expectations of the principals is that while I will live on the estate in the annex of the main house for security reasons, they also wanted someone to look after them while they visited the estate which included cooking for them. The principals and their family usually visited on Friday evening till Sunday afternoon.
Initially, the estate, though impressive and private, lacked vitality and allure. I commenced by meticulously restoring the interiors: polishing floors, revitalizing the brass girdles, and organizing and allocating spaces efficiently.I decluttered, restocked the kitchen, and engaged reliable contractors to rejuvenate the gardens. Gradually, I expanded my efforts to the property's periphery and beyond, ensuring every corner of the estate was attended to.Within six months, the estate gleamed with newfound elegance, and after a year, it had transformed into a haven that the family and their extended relations cherished.
My principle, I will do whatever can bring value to my position and the lives of those whom I touch. My dedication was recognized after two years when I received an 85% increase in my wages, along with an upgraded cottage to live.
Daniel, a dedicated Hungarian professional, was working as a concierge at a hoteling London, that was acquired by Middle Eastern owners and subsequently closed for renovationsWith all employees made redundant, Daniel found himself navigating a challenging job market. By the time we met, he was working as a telephone operator for a company contracted by the renowned Dorchester Hotel in London, far from his passion for the concierge role he loved which involved mingling and mixing with the guests and exhibiting his prowess knowledge of London and getting things fixed for the guests.
Now he is sitting away from the limelight only hearing voices of unknown faces. Daniel was referred to me through a mutual friend, and during our initial conversations, he expressed an interest in transitioning into a household role as a houseman or butler—a career path influenced by his mother's suggestion. Now I realized why Daniel was referred to me by his mother as I am from this background and I was training people who want to enter into or who was in Private household positions.
As we spoke further, it became clear that Daniel did not fully grasp the nuances of a household position. To help him gain clarity, I arranged a visit to a large house in London Marylebone, where I walked him through the potential tasks and responsibilities of the roles he was considering.
After experiencing the environment firsthand, Daniel realized that household service was not his calling. What stood out during our discussions was Daniel’s genuine enthusiasm for being a concierge—a role that brought him true joy and showcased his versatility. His challenge, however, was re-entering this profession after more than three years away, during which time the competitive landscape had only intensified.Together, we delved into assignments to identify the root of Daniel’s setbacks.
It became apparent that his difficulties in presenting himself stemmed from a misunderstanding of what UK employers were seeking—perceptions that may have worked in Hungary but were less effective in the UK context.We dedicated hours to refining his responses and interview skills, focusing on how he could better align his presentation with employer expectations. Armed with a tailored strategy to navigate his return to five-star hospitality, Daniel was determined to reclaim his career.Within eight weeks of our sessions, Daniel secured his first concierge position after over three years, in a decent four star Hotel , and within eight months, he had landed a coveted role in a five-star hotel as he desired.
It is sad that how many of us take our dreams to our graves. I have learnt that we can get what we want, just work out a way and put in the efforts to get qualified for it and when we have learnt the ropes and put in the energy it comes to us.
A year later, Daniel invited my family and me to dinner at the beautiful hotel terrace where he now thrives. His journey is a powerful testament to the impact of clear guidance, self-discovery, and the right preparation. Daniel's success story is a example of how reconnecting with one’s passion and having a clear strategy can lead to personal and professional fulfillment.
We all need mentors who can identify and it is worth investing a very small part of your life with a mentor can realize your values.
This case study highlights the critical role of an Estate Manager in navigating delicate situations with staff and service providers, maintaining a harmonious estate environment, and ensuring that the Principals' interests are upheld.
Key Points:
Initial Concerns and Actions: The Principals expressed a desire to terminate the Houseman, citing gossip and a lack of trust.
Additionally, there was frustration with the pond's condition and potential legal action against the service provider.
My task was to address both issues: Managing the Houseman's deployment situation and resolving the fresh water pond's water clarity.
Assessment and Intervention with the Houseman: Despite initial negative feedback, my observations revealed the Houseman’s value and dedication to his role. My thought was that the Principals see the value of the staff and recognize that he was an asset.
I chose a strategic approach, focusing on improving the Houseman's rapport with the Lady of the House, fostering small but meaningful changes in his behavior. This intervention helped shift the Principals' perspective, leading to the eventual decision to retain the Houseman, there by preserving a valuable employee to the estate. Resolving the Pond Issue: I facilitated a direct meeting with the pond installing company owner, the Principal, moderated by me ensuring open communication and accountability.
By taking personal responsibility for the maintenance and working closely with the service provider, a collaborative solution was implemented, the pond company agreeing to plant more aqua plants for better quicker results, I took responsibility to weekly purge the water which was a requirement, which led to the desired outcome of clear pond water within six weeks and avoided litigation.
Outcome and Reflection: My approach underscored the importance of understanding the estate’s dynamics and the principal realized though the brief was different that I am working in their absolute interest, as I took responsibility and I facilitated things swiftly in their interest without a drama.
The successful resolution of both issues not only saved the Principals from potential disruption and conflict but also demonstrated the impact of a proactive and empathy of the Estate Manager. Lessons Learned: Open communication with all parties involved, Taking ownership of the solution towards the issue, are some of the things crucial in Private service. Have the interest of your Principals at heart.
Patience and Observation: Taking time to observe and understand the true dynamics before making decisions can prevent hasty actions that could disrupt estate operations.Building Trust: By gaining the trust of the Houseman, I was able to facilitate behavior changes that benefited the estate and Principals. Proactive Problem-Solving: Addressing issues head-on with clear communication and accountability helped to align service expectations and outcomes, avoiding potential legal complications.