Butler (LMO/TS 3)

Job Purpose

Under the direction of the Household Manager, the Butler is responsible for the provision of food and beverage service to Their Excellencies, family and guests. The Butler also provides support for housekeeping tasks and preparations for Their Excellencies travel. 

The Butler is formally trained and supports the Head Butler in delivering his or her roles and responsibilities, which include preparing for state visits, official functions, formal dinners and cocktail parties; ensuring that the utmost attention is paid to all the various aspects of output. He or she also assists with packing and travel preparations for Their Excellencies. 

The incumbent seeks to achieve the job purpose by embracing, demonstrating and contributing to the Vision of the Office of The Governor-General and Staff: “A culture of excellence through people performance and partnerships”. 

Key Responsibilities

Technical/Professional: 

• Keeps abreast of activities on Their Excellencies weekly, monthly and annual Diaries, to ensure optimal response time and preparedness for activities/events that will require food and/or beverage service; 
• Co-ordinates with Head Butler for the timely delivery of meal service for Their Excellencies and guests. Assists with the preparation of items as required;
• Sets table in the residence and for events as required. Carries out effective cleaning of fine china, silverware, crystal and related food service items in the residence;
• Provides superior wait service to Their Excellencies and guests, for the range of events and activities undertaken (e.g. Courtesy Calls, Meetings, Teas, and other events, as required). Sets beverage/tea stations as required; 
• Observes safety and sanitation requirements, in keeping with Standard Operating Procedures; 
• Carries out housekeeping tasks as required, in keeping with Standard Operating Procedures; 
• Assists with packing and movement of luggage for Their Excellencies travel as required;
• Assists with the movement of guests and their luggage as required. Responds to their requests as required; 
• Responds to Their Excellencies personal requests and/or needs; 
• Answers telephone and receives in-person messages for Their Excellencies; delivers messages, ascertains feedback and reverts to sender in a timely manner;
• Assists with wait service at offsite banquets, cocktails, functions and personal service for their Excellencies, their guests and visitors as required; 
• Undertakes responsibilities, when required, for absent staff, as well as support others with their daily functions, when needed; 
• Is knowledge of valet services and is available to provide those services to His Excellency, when needed; 
• Performs any other job-related duties assigned by the Head Butler and/or Household Manager. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

• Knowledge of food and beverage preparation and food and beverage service Knowledge of the range of housekeeping tasks, furnishings and their care
• Knowledge and understanding of health and safety issues 
• Loyal, composed, trustworthy and demonstrates impeccable integrity 
• Skilled in food and beverage service 
• Physically strong, healthy and capable. Able to stand for extended periods
• Able to anticipate customer needs, change goals and direction quickly
• A problem-solving and results-driven individual, with an eye for details
• Able to exercise initiative and cope well under pressure 
• Communicates effectively, both in oral and written forms, with persons at all levels
• Confidential and professional in personal conduct and execution of duties 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Diploma in Hospitality Management/Food Service, or equivalent, from a recognized tertiary institution; 
• Training in Wait Service and Food and Beverage Preparation (preferably HEART TRUST-NTA certification with practical experience in formal food service entity);
• Formal specialized training in the skills set practiced by Butlers, such as table service, routine home maintenance, laundry essentials, as well as household cleaning and organizing, from a recognized institution; 
• Three (3) years of proven, related experience in a comparable setting;
• Valid Food Handler’s Permit. 

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• The Butler may work up to ten (10) to twelve (12) hours per day, including weekends and public holidays, based on needs and requirements; 
• The incumbent may experience the pressures of simultaneously co-ordinating a wide range of activities; 
• This position requires solving problems that arise, spending long hours on one’s feet and often having to lift objects.

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.