ROLE OVERVIEW
The Butler is the command center for staff operations. Beyond personal duties, the Butler manages resources, scheduling, and planning — running the estate like a seamless five-star hotel where needs are met before they are consciously felt.
CORE FOCUS
Directing & scheduling staff · Greeting guests & departures · Event planning & protocol · Travel arrangements · Budgeting & inventory · Table & cigar service · Information gathering · Security
A PRINCIPLE OF SERVICE
"The essence of being a major domo is leadership — to ensure the house runs seamlessly. The mission is to empower others to succeed at their tasks."
RESPONSIBILITIES & STANDARDS
Directing Staff
Lead a daily morning briefing: review the schedule, assign tasks and zones, share principal and guest preferences
Run a disciplined shift-change protocol with full handover of tasks, incidents, and observations
Event Planning
Define the occasion and objective with the principal; set guest list, budget, and timeline
Source and vet vendors, manage contracts, and oversee setup through breakdown
Keep a one-page contingency plan for every event
Budgeting & Inventory
Track and categorize all household expenditures (provisions, staff, maintenance)
Present a monthly budget report to the principal for review
Maintain spending limits and a clear expense-approval process
Security & Conflict Resolution
Greet and verify every visitor and delivery; log all entries and exits; secure entry points on schedule
De-escalate calmly, establish a common goal, agree on resolution, and report all incidents to the principal