The Cotswold Estate Manager – Autumn / Winter 2025 Edition
We’re delighted to share the latest edition of The Cotswold Estate Manager, our seasonal magazine created exclusively for House Managers, Estate Managers, and Private PAs overseeing some of the most distinguished homes and estates across the Cotswolds.
This issue is packed with practical insights and updates designed to help you recruit, retain, and manage exceptional household teams while staying ahead of key legislative and market trends shaping the private household sector.
Inside this Issue
- Preparing Private Households for Christmas – how to plan staffing for chefs, butlers and hosts during the festive season.
- PAYE or Self-Employed – what you should expect to pay and the true cost of each option.
- The Rising Value of Housekeepers – why salaries are climbing and what standards to expect at each level.
- Legislative Update – upcoming changes under the Employment Rights Bill and what they mean for private households.
- Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) – what’s changing and how to stay compliant while protecting privacy.
- The Cotswolds as a VIP Destination – how the region’s global profile is creating exciting opportunities for private staff.
- Live-in Staff & Accommodation Offsets – ensure your contracts remain compliant with National Minimum Wage rules.
- The Hiring Manager Toolkit – access free templates and resources to streamline your recruitment process.
Editor’s Note
“As we approach the festive season and look ahead to 2026, the demands on private households continue to evolve. Recruiting and retaining the very best private staff, navigating rising salary expectations, and staying ahead of legislative changes are all key to maintaining excellence.”
— Jodie Hannah, Founder of The Burford Recruitment Company & Cotswold Private Staff
Exclusive Offer
Enjoy 25 % off your first introduction in 2026 – details inside the magazine.
How Estate Managers Ensure the Long-Term Success of Large Estates
Providing Leadership in Complex Environments Even the most impressive estates can struggle behind the scenes without strong, consistent leadership. Large properties operate as complex environments. They often encompass multiple buildings,
Cleaner or Housekeeper: What Does Your Household Actually Need?
Within a private household, the distinction between a Cleaner and a Housekeeper can sometimes appear subtle. Both contribute to the presentation and upkeep of a home, and there will inevitably
Modern Security Solutions for Cotswold Estates
How Estate Security Has Evolved Beyond Gates and CCTV Security within rural estates has evolved significantly in recent years. While traditional measures such as gates, alarms, and CCTV remain important,
