Private household, estate management, horticultural, and private office recruitment — frequently asked questions for clients and candidates.
What types of roles do you recruit for?
We recruit across the full spectrum of Private Household, Estate Management, Horticultural, and Private Office positions. Typical roles include Housekeepers, Domestic Couples, Butlers, House Managers, Estate Managers, Gardeners, Groundskeepers, Private Chefs, Chauffeurs, Personal Assistants, and Office Support staff. Whether you’re looking for permanent, temporary, or seasonal employment, we have opportunities across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, and the wider Cotswolds.
How can I find jobs in private households, estates, or private offices?
You can view our current vacancies on our Job Search page or explore specialist listings for Private Household, Horticultural & Estate Management, and Office & Professional recruitment. Registering with us ensures you’re considered for roles that match your skills, experience, and lifestyle
Do you offer temporary or seasonal estate and household staff?
Yes. We provide temporary and seasonal cover across private households, estates, gardens, and private offices. This includes short-term Housekeepers, Gardeners, and experienced PAs who can support principals or estate offices during busy periods, and Butlers, Ecvent Hosts and Private Chefs for events.
How do you vet candidates for private and estate-based roles?
Every candidate is personally interviewed by our consultants. We verify identity, employment history, qualifications, and references, and arrange DBS checks where appropriate. This rigorous process ensures our clients receive trusted professionals with the right skills, attitude, and discretion.
I’m a Principal, PA, or Estate Manager - how can I hire staff through you?
Simply contact us to arrange a confidential discussion regarding your requirements. We’ll visit you if approproiate, and take time to understand your household, estate, or office structure, then introduce carefully selected candidates who meet your exact standards. We handle all aspects of recruitment, from search and screening to offer negotiation and start-date coordination.
Can you help with staffing entire estates or households?
Yes. We regularly support Principals, Estate Managers, and Family Offices in building complete teams — from Housekeepers and Gardeners to House Managers, Chefs, and Chauffeurs. Our consultative approach ensures every placement aligns with the household’s structure, service standards, and long-term goals.
What areas do you cover for recruitment?
We are based in the Cotswolds, and our main focus is on recruiting across the Cotswolds and surrounding counties, including Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Warwickshire, although we will also recruit across the UK. Our local knowledge of rural estates, market towns, and luxury residences enables us to match candidates who understand the unique demands of these environments.
Why should I choose The Burford Recruitment Company?
We are a Trustindex Top Rated Service, recognised for our professionalism, discretion, and results. With over 90 five-star reviews, we’re proud of our reputation — but even prouder of the exceptional team behind it.
Our consultants combine extensive industry expertise with a personal, values-driven approach, ensuring every client and candidate receives outstanding support. Guided by our core values — Confidentiality & Discretion, Commitment to Excellence, Professional Integrity, and Community — we deliver a service trusted by households, estates, and private offices across the Cotswolds and beyond.How can I register as a candidate?
Visit our Register Online page to create your candidate profile. Include details of your experience, preferred locations, and salary expectations so we can match you with the most suitable opportunities.
Do I need previous private household experience to register with you?
While previous private household or estate experience is always valued, it’s not essential. We also help candidates with experience gained in luxury hospitality venues transition into private roles. Our team will guide you on how to present your transferable skills to suit the expectations of discerning households and estates.
What makes recruiting for private households different from other sectors?
Private household and estate recruitment requires complete discretion, trust, and a personal approach. Each role is unique to the Principal or estate, so understanding the culture and lifestyle of the household is as important as matching skills. Our consultants specialise exclusively in this sector, ensuring a tailored, confidential service.
How do you ensure confidentiality for Principals and candidates?
Confidentiality and discretion are central to everything we do. We never share client or candidate details without express consent. Our systems are GDPR-compliant, and all team members follow strict privacy protocols to protect sensitive information at every stage of the recruitment process.
How do I stay updated on new job opportunities?
You can stay up to date by registering your details on our Register Online page, subscribing to our newsletter, or following us on LinkedIn and Facebook. We regularly share new roles and career insights across the Cotswolds and beyond.Answer

