The British Embassy in Berlin is part of a world-wide network representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas. It is also part of the UK’s Germany Network (including Consulate-Generals in Dusseldorf and Munich). We are looking for a Residence Manager to lead the team at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Berlin-Grunewald, who deliver our official events at the Residence and at our Embassy in Berlin-Mitte.

The Residence supports the work of the Network in Germany in furthering UK government interests and policy objectives, building and maintaining a network of senior and influential contacts and showcasing the UK. It is used to host a wide range of events for senior German politicians, businesspeople, cultural leaders and others, delivering in a wide range of formats from small dinners to the annual King’s Birthday Party reception with hundreds of guests. It also provides accommodation for official visitors.  

The Residence Manager has overall responsibility for ensuring that the Residence is well-maintained and that the events and services provided to the Ambassador’s guests and visitors, both at the Residence and at the British Embassy in Berlin-Mitte, are delivered to the highest possible standard. The successful candidate will lead and supervise a small but highly capable team of Residence Staff and work closely with the Ambassador and with other Embassy colleagues, including the Private Office, security, and estates management teams. This is a rewarding position that requires excellent interpersonal and organisational skills, proactivity, great teamwork and strong customer focus.

The role will require flexible working, based on a 40-hour week. We offer flexible working patterns subject to agreement and business needs. Due to the nature of the role, there will be a requirement for evening and weekend work around events and visits, with the Residence Manager able to work flexible hours around these events. Additional hours will be agreed upon according to the Embassy’s Terms and Conditions of Service.

• Fluency at C1 level in English and German (written and spoken, minimum of C1 level for CEFR framework)

• Experience in running and working in a diplomatic residence, luxury hotel setting or a similar medium/large operation, with experience in event management and with a strong customer focus;

• Proven people management skills and able to effectively prioritise, with a proven ability to work under pressure with limited supervision and to make decisions when appropriate in line with steers from the Ambassador and the Ambassador’s Diary/Social Secretary;

• A proactive self-starter who is able to delegate as appropriate to their team to deliver projects effectively;

• Excellent interpersonal and organisational skills. Able to collaborate effectively, supportively and respectfully with colleagues, both individually and in teams;

• Ability and desire to demonstrate high standards and a strong attention to detail;

• Has a high standard of personal presentation and is able to act with discretion at all times;

• Flexibility in terms of working hours and duties – the jobholder should be prepared to work evenings and occasional weekends in support of events hosted by the Ambassador and Embassy;

• Strong IT skills, proficiency in MS Office and internet applications.