Head Butler/ Head of House

Head Butler / Head of House

Gstaad  ·  Private Family  ·  Full-Time

• Location: Gstaad, Switzerland
• Employment type: full-time, permanent
• Schedule: alternating 5 and 6 days a week, with days in lieu for weekend work. Downtime can be taken when the family travels.
• Accommodation: Live-out, temporary staff accommodation provided for 3-6 months. 
• Salary: CHF 90,000–100,000 gross per annum, depending on experience
• Travel: available to travel with the family when required.

THE ROLE

A private family is seeking a Head Butler / Head of House, an experienced, hands-on professional who will take full responsibility for its chalet in Gstaad, reporting directly to the principal and the senior household manager, across table service, guest hosting and events, stock and expenditure, contractors and maintenance, and service during the family's stays abroad.

This is a central appointment of trust for someone who combines refined service etiquette, financial rigour, practical judgement and a warm, down-to-earth manner. It is not a purely supervisory role: the right candidate leads by example, works closely with a small team and willingly supports housekeeping when needed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Take full responsibility for the daily running of the chalet, reporting directly to the principal and the senior household manager.
• Deliver formal butler service, including table settings and beverage service, to consistently high standards.
• Work alongside the household team, coordinating schedules and supporting housekeeping whenever required.
• Plan and execute private dinners and entertaining, from preparation through to service and guest hosting.
• Travel occasionally with the family to their other residence abroad, where the focus is primarily on service.
• Manage stock and household expenditure, with a complete stock check during absences and accurate records of all costs.
• Prepare a snagging list of repairs and maintenance, and oversee contractors through to completion of the works.
• Act as first point of contact for the chalet's household technology, liaising with specialist providers when needed.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

• At least three years of experience as a Butler, Head Butler or Junior House Manager in a private household, and a stable career history with longevity 
• Backgrounds of particular interest: yachts or high-end hotels, as well as butler training or service in private households in the UK or Europe.
• Refined formal service etiquette; knowledge of fine wines or sommelier training would be an advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to manage stock, expenditure and contractors; familiarity with modern household systems would be appreciated.
• A hands-on, team-oriented approach, with complete discretion, a polished and approachable manner, and concise, responsive communication.
• Valid right to work in Switzerland, flexible with working hours and available to travel when required
• Languages: fluent English is essential; German would be a valued asset

Package

The salary range is CHF 90,000–100,000 (13 instalments) gross per annum, depending on experience.
Live-out role, with temporary staff accommodation provided for 3-6 months. 
Holiday allowance: 20 days

HOW TO APPLY

JOB ID: [À CONFIRMER]