Illustrations by Giulia Neri

A recent Wall Street Journal article by E.B. Solomont, "Meet the Army of Staffers Who Manage the Mansions of the Ultrarich," sheds light on the complex world of domestic staffing for ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) families. As the article highlights, owning a sprawling luxury property is not about a quiet, simple life—it's about managing a private enterprise.

For today's affluent families, the traditional model of household help has been replaced by a highly specialized team of professionals. This "army of staffers" is the foundation that allows these intricate households to run with seamless efficiency. While we couldn't access the full content of the Wall Street Journal article, our expertise in the field confirms its central premise: modern domestic service is a highly skilled profession.

The Modern Roles of Domestic Staff

The title of "servant" has been replaced by "staff," and the roles have evolved to match the unique and demanding needs of the ultra-rich. Today's household teams are often led by a Chief of Staff or Estate Manager, who acts as the CEO of the home, overseeing all operations and other staff members.

Other essential roles include:

• Personal Assistant (PA): The PA is the gatekeeper of their employer’s life, handling everything from managing complex travel itineraries and scheduling to anticipating their every need.

• Private Chef: More than just a cook, a private chef is a culinary expert who creates bespoke meals, manages kitchen inventory, and can cater high-end events on demand.

• Executive Housekeeper: This is not a simple cleaning role. These professionals are trained to care for fine art, antiques, and luxury materials, ensuring every detail of the home is maintained to the highest standard.

• Lifestyle Manager: A role dedicated to enhancing the quality of life, from sourcing rare luxury goods to curating unique social experiences.

The New Standard of Discretion

A key theme in this industry is the importance of discretion. As the Wall Street Journal article touches on, and as we at Private Staff Group know, trust is the most valuable currency. UHNW families often require their staff to sign strict non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect their privacy and personal information.

The demanding nature of these roles is balanced by significant compensation and benefits. Staff who can deliver on the "three C's"—Confidentiality, Commitment, and Capability—are compensated accordingly, with salaries that often exceed what one might find in traditional corporate roles.

In a world where time is the ultimate luxury, an elite team of household staff is the key to a truly effortless lifestyle. The Wall Street Journal's recent article serves as a powerful reminder of this often-overlooked world, and we are proud to be at the forefront of connecting discerning employers with the exceptional talent that makes it all possible.

Read the Wall Street Journal article here!