Estate manager working for a private family

The estate manager oversees the organization and operation of the employer’s entire estate or several residences. Managers ensure that a property is maintained with the ultimate goal of running an estate as efficiently as possible.

Through careful management and coordination, he or she manages maintenance, large-scale projects, and complex financial and administrative tasks. Here is the full estate manager job description. It contains all the information you need to know.

  • Primary missions: management and maintenance of the residences of the employer
  • Live-out or Live-in
  • Salary: $66,000 to $150,000 per year
  • Type of job: domestic staff

Missions and responsibilities

Estate managers should be meticulous and organized. Their role requires them to prepare and manage budgets, train and supervise staff, and oversee the day-to-day running of the property. They are also required to manage reservations and events. This is a job with a high level of responsibility, which includes:

  • meeting with the employer to discuss plans, events, and property needs;
  • preparing, presenting, and managing household budgets;
  • managing the daily operations of the property including staff schedules and reservations;
  • supervising all grounds and house staff, providing training, daily feedback;
  • hiring contractors on behalf of the owner of the property;
  • liaising with event planners, catering services, and employers to ensure the smooth running of all functions;
  • managing all administrative tasks (filing insurance claims or legal documents).

If you are looking for a meticulous and exceptional estate manager, please visit our recruitment page.

How to become an estate manager?

Although you can become an estate manager without a degree, estate managers often have relevant training and experience. Stepping into this role means embarking on a path of continuous management and adaptation.

Education and skills

No formal education is required to become an estate manager. However, a bachelor’s degree in real estate, property management, or business administration is preferred. As for skills, you’ll need to fill this highly demanding role, you’ll need to have:

  • exceptional knowledge of ground management and operations;
  • strong leadership and project management skills;
  • significant communication skills;
  • serious time management and multitasking abilities;
  • and be available at all times, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Experience

Proven experience in a similar role is often required. Employers are typically looking for someone with at least 5 years’ experience in real estate, project management, or property management including coordinating housekeeping, and maintenance. Excellent references from previous employers are also usually requested. Morgan & Mallet International is recruiting for this position, please visit our recruitment page for more information.

Work conditions

Estate managers usually work full-time, often at one of the employer’s properties, and may receive benefits such as accommodation and meals. They typically work around 40 hours a week, not including evenings, events, or weekend work that may be required.

The day-to-day work of an estate manager can be demanding, requiring the ability to manage a team, a variety of tasks, and unforeseen events. But it is also a rewarding job, knowing that the manager is responsible for the smooth operation of superb properties.

Salary

Salaries vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, and household size, typically ranging from $66,000 to $150,000 per year.

Similar jobs

Estate managers work with other household staff, so related jobs include house manager and personal assistant each with different focuses and responsibilities

House manager

A house manager‘s job involves working closely with the family, managing each member’s calendar, overseeing security, inventory and deliveries, and maintaining household equipment.

Personal assistant

The personal assistant is often more involved in managing the personal schedule and specific needs of an individual or family. Their work is more focused on administrative tasks, scheduling appointments, and often involves accompanying their employer in various capacities.

Top cities to find jobs as an estate manager

Major cities around the world offer the most job opportunities for Estate Managers: Paris, Monaco, New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dubai, London, Hong Kong…

Estate manager job growth trend

As high-net-worth households seek balance with their busy lifestyles and desire for well-managed properties, the importance of the estate manager’s role is increasing. According to the website Zippia, the job growth rate for estate managers in the U.S. is 3% for over the next decade.

Example of an estate manager job description

Here’s an example of an Estate Manager job description. A client is looking for an Estate Manager for a permanent position in Geneva.

Job duties and responsibilities

  • Recruit, train, and supervise domestic staff for various villas.
  • Oversee the overall maintenance and repair of the property’s grounds and buildings.
  • Responsible for managing the property’s budget.
  • Ensure that the property is well maintained and that all utilities are in good working order.
  • Manage multiple properties, travelling to each of them to provide oversight and maintain contact with sites and teams.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for staff and external service providers.
  • Act as the first point of contact in the event of an emergency.
  • Inspect the property prior to the owner’s arrival.
  • Provide ongoing support to property owners.

Profile requirement

  • A minimum of 7 years of experience in a similar position.
  • Discreet individuals with a strong sense of confidentiality.
  • Meticulous and responsible.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as a part of a team.
  • Negotiation and conflict management skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure, time management and problem-solving skills.
  • Advanced computer skills, ability to respond promptly to emails and messages.
  • Driver’s licence required.
  • Swiss work permit.

Job conditions

  • Full-time / flexibility on evenings and weekends
  • Live-out
  • Salary based on experience

Frequently asked questions about estate manager Job

What qualifications do I need to become an estate manager?

Although no formal qualifications are required, a bachelor’s degree in real estate, property management, or business administration would be an advantage.

Is previous experience in the private sector necessary to find a job as an estate manager?

Proven experience in a similar role is often required. Employers usually look for someone with at least 5 years’ experience.

What are the typical working hours for an estate manager?

The role typically involves full-time hours with the potential for overtime during evenings, events, weekends, and holidays.

Can an estate manager role lead to other opportunities?

Definitely. The role of Estate Manager can lead to the position of Residence Director, or Consultant in the luxury home management sector.

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