Our client is looking for an experienced and knowledgeable Housekeeper/Cook to join them in their beautiful 10-bedroom medieval home on a working estate in Coastal Devon. The principal spends roughly 50% of his time on the estate and frequently has guests over. We are looking for someone who is motivated in their work, able to manage their time effectively and work efficiently whilst maintaining the highest of standards. Ideally you will come from a private household background with previous experience and longevity in a similar role.

You must have excellent housekeeping knowledge and be a confident cook. You will be responsible for the daily and deep cleaning of the household and ensure it is always tidy and presentable. Making beds, cleaning bathrooms and all areas of the house, you will also be responsible for wardrobe management, laundry, ironing, organising cupboards and ensuring that the home is generally well presented and cared for. The role includes cooking, and you should be a keen, experienced cook able to provide family style, Mediterranean type healthy meals, with game from the estate at times and produce from the vegetable garden. Occasionally you will be required to cook for up to 20 people when the principal has guests over and during these busier times, extra part-time help will be arranged to provide assistance.

This position is live-in, and you will work Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm when the principal is not in residence. Flexibility is required when the principal is in residence and entertaining, including working over weekends, with time given off in lieu at a later stage. Accommodation is provided in a private 2-bedroom cottage with a separate entrance on the grounds. There are working dogs on the estate, but no pets at the house at present.

DUTIES TO INCLUDE, BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
• High standard of cleaning, knowledge of how to care for fine furniture and antiques
• Laundry, including hand washing of delicate fabrics such as cashmere, silk etc.
• Ironing
• Making and changing beds
• Shopping for groceries and cleaning supplies
• Cooking healthy meals for the principal when he is in residence
• Occasionally cooking for large groups, between 15-20 people
• Cleaning and tidying the kitchen
• Inventory management

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:
• Prior similar experience in a private estate or household
• Confident and organised cook
• A good level of spoken English
• Hardworking, reliable and trustworthy
• A confident driver
• Excellent checkable references