Who are we:

The British Embassy in Slovakia is part of a worldwide network representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas and is now looking for a Residence Manager to join our team.

Why should you apply:

The main purpose of the job is to manage the British Ambassador’s Residence, combining a representational and customer-focussed approach to diplomatic events and visitors with administrative duties. The Residence Manager works closely with the Ambassador on the day-to-day management of the Residence as well as planning and delivering events including official breakfasts, lunches, dinners, receptions and seminars.

The role requires an ability to juggle a range of different activities, from helping to organise a national day reception, receiving ministerial visitors to hosting a small, informal afternoon tea. The job holder manages the Housekeeper and Chef and works with the Ambassador’s Executive Assistant, Facilities Management team, gardeners and drivers. 

What will you be expected to achieve:

Day to day running of the British Ambassador’s official Residence in Bratislava

Work closely with the British Ambassador to:

– Oversee the maintenance of the Residence and garden.

– Keep the Residence in a well-maintained, presentable style by ensuring the furniture & decor are in good order, sourcing replacements if necessary, and ensuring crockery, cutlery, glassware and silver are in order through good inventory control.

– Order wine and spirit stocks, keeping an up-to-date log of stock, and maintaining wine cellar in good order.

– Order cleaning materials, help the Housekeeper keep a log of stock.

– Order items for the Residence as required at the request of the Housekeeper, Chef, etc.

Line Manage The Chef & Housekeeper

–  Keep track of working hours, overtime, holidays, sickness & medical leave.

–  Keep a list of suitable alternative housekeeper/chef for short notice absences/holidays.

–  Complete performance appraisals for the Housekeeper and Chef.

–  Ensure bedrooms are kept in good condition & prepared to a high standard for guests.

–  Ensure the kitchen is kept clean and is in good working order.

–  Identify learning and development opportunities for self and Residence colleagues.

–  Be responsible for meeting health & safety, hygiene and other statutory requirements.

Welcome & help visitors

– Help to welcome and host guests and serve refreshments during events.

Event planning

– Work with the Ambassador ‘s Executive Assistant to deliver first class events.

– Work with the Ambassador on house décor, flowers, menus & set up for events.

– Prepare, organise and deliver events, organising lay out of rooms for different events. 

– Produce accurate cost estimates for events and activities.  

– Work with external organisations involved in event delivery.

– Book external staff e.g., waiters, security.

– Supervise and be responsible for the smooth delivery of events while in progress.

– Arrange rental of extra equipment (kitchen equipment, glassware, crockery, tents, etc.).

– Maintain accurate files, records and photos of events.

Other duties

–    Liaise with Corporate Services Manager in the Embassy on all budget matters.

–    Reconcile accounts and purchases, including after events.

This role requires flexible working hours, including occasional early morning or late evening and/or very occasional weekend work.

Our ideal candidate will possess:

• Excellent communication skills, proficient in English and Slovak
• Good understanding of customer service
• Strong organisation abilities, able to multi-task
• Ability to work under direction as well as being able to use own initiative
• An eye for detail, creativity & flexibility
• Prior hospitality, event and people management experience, a team player, professional and calm under pressure
• Computer and administrative skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel