The Butler is often engaged in a formal household, and is knowledgeable in etiquette and protocol. The Butler is customarily responsible for a single residence, supervising household staff, setting up the household and ensuring all duties are fulfilled. Typical duties include ordering household supplies, setting and serving a formal table, caring for the silver, china, and crystal and overseeing dinner parties and other events held in the home. A Butler should have good knowledge of wines and these days is often tech savvy.
Duties
Ensuring the smooth running of a household and servicing of principals and guests, usually supervising others but also providing service.
Engaging and overseeing outside contractors, service providers and suppliers.
Overseeing household staff including hiring, firing, payroll management and performance reviews.
Staff training and development , financial management, budget administration, and purchasing.
Regularly interacting with owners to maintain direct communication and compliance with their needs
Ensuring efficiency, harmony, and high morale throughout the household
Organising of social and family events
Caring for household’s guests and visitors
Serving of wines and other drinks
Serving of refreshments and meals
Caring for silver, china, antiques and other specialist items
Covering duties of a valet, chef, housekeeper, nanny, pet minder, gardener, or chauffeur if these staff are occasionally off duty or on-sick leave.
