This post is for a highly experienced couple who would like to be in full charge when the family are frequently away.
The property is an old chateau on 800 acres in Gascony, South-West France. The location is very beautiful and peaceful. The weather is generally much better than the UK although there are some cold and wet periods in winter months. The family are present approximately one third of the time. There is a working organic farm and around a dozen horses. The team is led by an English-speaking Frenchman who oversees everything. He lives a few miles away. There is an English lady who looks after the horses and her partner who works primarily on farm and garden related activities. This couple live on site. There is also a part-time French accountant who pays bills, salaries etc.
At present, in addition, the principal have a full time gardener and a full time housekeeper who between them fill the roles outlined below. They are both English and after 3 and a half years they are planning to move near to their home in Spain at some point over the next few months. So our client is looking to replace them. The replacements could be two separate individuals or a couple.
Good quality accommodation will be provided on site – either a shared property or two separate units.
Roles Include
Housekeeper:
Cleaning
Laundry
Occasional cooking
Shopping in advance of family visits
Gardener:
Gardening
Swimming pool and tennis court maintenance
Pick-ups/drop-offs from airport
Tractor driving/farm tasks at busy periods
Handyman
Both:
Horse and dog care when full-time groom is off
Anything else needing to be done
Characteristics Required
Honesty
Flexibility
Self-motivation
Ability to be happy in peaceful rural surroundings
Some minimal knowledge of and willingness to handle dogs and horses
Driving licence
Liking children
Some basic French
Adaptability and willingness to work as a small team
Willingness to work some weekends and take time off mid-week
Energy and enthusiasm and warmth
