Live in Head Housekeeper / Cook Job

Greycoat Lumleys; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed domestic staffing agency is seeking a Live-in Housekeeper/Cook to manage a busy family household near Lewes, East Sussex. The role includes housekeeping, meal preparation, and supervising other staff. The ideal candidate is proactive, discreet, and has a passion for cooking fresh, seasonal meals. Accommodation in a self-contained cottage is provided. Salary ranges from £40,000 to £45,000 gross annually, with work hours from 9–5 Monday to Friday.

Benefits

Accommodation provided

Bills included in accommodation

Opportunity to work in a picturesque location

Qualifications

• Proven experience in housekeeping and cooking, preferably in a similar role.
• Ability to manage household tasks efficiently and lead a small team.
• Driving license and own vehicle required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and assist with housekeeping, laundry, and cleaning.
• Manage general upkeep of the house and collaborate with other staff.
• Cook fresh, seasonal meals for the family and prepare for events.
• Support with child care when needed and manage guests.

Skills

Housekeeping

Cooking

Management of household systems

Flexibility

Driving

Job description

Live in Housekeeper / Cook job near Lewes, East Sussex

Excellent, proactive and experienced Housekeeper/Cook required for a beautiful and busy Manor House in the countryside. This is the family’s main residence, and they also host large summer events and smaller gatherings during the shoot season. Additional staff are employed, and the role includes overseeing other full and part-time live-out housekeepers to maintain the property to a high standard.

The family are informal, with a busy lifestyle and children aged 4 and 9. They are seeking a discreet, reliable person with strong common sense, high standards, and someone who would enjoy a varied role in a picturesque location. This position suits someone confident in leading by example, willing to help with any task, and able to offer flexibility during busy periods.

The ideal candidate will have a positive, adaptable approach and be happy to assist wherever needed.

Duties to include

• Hands-on housekeeping, cleaning, laundry and ironing (most of this is carried out by other housekeepers, but you must be willing to assist during busy times.)
• Hands-on management of general house upkeep and organisation of household systems.
• Bed making
• Running errands as required
• Managing house guests
• Occasional support with the children if needed (a nanny is employed and the mother is very hands-on)
• Cooking for the family; they enjoy fresh, healthy, seasonal meals cooked from scratch, including some batch cooking. The ability to cook game would be an advantage.
• Preparing canapés for summer events for 30–100 guests on occasion would be beneficial
• House sitting and dog sitting (3 well-behaved dogs) when the owners are away.

Partners and pets will be considered.

Driving essential. Must have own car, although a car is provided for work purposes.

Hours 9–5 Monday–Friday, approximately 40 hours per week. Flexibility is required due to the nature of the role.

Accommodation A self-contained 2-bedroom cottage on the grounds. Bills included.

Salary £40,000 to £45,000 gross per annum

Start date January 2026

Job Reference 130268

Consultant to contact: Shannon Anderson

If you are not already registered with Greycoat Lumleys and would like to apply for this job, please email your CV to [e-mail]