Senior Housekeeper/ Cook, Milan & Ibiza

For a HNW Individual we are looking for an experienced Italian/ English speaking Senior Housekeeper/ Cook (male or female) to permanently care for two primary residences in Milan (Italy) Live-in or Live-out and Ibiza (Spain), Live-in. Driver´s license and EU passport/ right to work in EU essential. Longevity in past roles a must.

This is a hands on role that requires the Senior Housekeeper/ Cook to be comfortable with supporting two residences with Ibiza over the summer (high demand with support staff) and Milan over the winter (low demand) while aligning with the Principal who travels frequently (the schedule is known months in advance). Candidates should be confident in cooking daily simple yet healthy meals. The Principal is flexible and reasonable in order to make arrangements work well on both sides for someone to remain in the role for many years.

In Milan it is only the Principal who visits averaging 3 days a week and on occasion he is away for a month. When he is not in residence work hours are much reduced. The apartment (120m²) is located in a quiet area right in the centre of Milan close to a park. The space is modern and stylish with some delicate surfaces but it is not demanding to keep clean. There are no pets and there are some indoor plants. If living-out, accommodation can be provided (a late dinner or early start).

In Ibiza it is mostly but not continuously the Principal and his partner who stay over the summer season with occasional visits from the three children and others.   The stunning villa consist of 5 bedrooms (approx. 350m²) and is located in one of the most prestigious communities on the island with 24/7 security and a secure entrance gate. It is situated north west of the island, close (walking distance) to the coast and to beautiful beaches and coves. There is a pool and garden which are taken care of.  A car is available. The nearest town and shops are approx. a 10-15 min drive away (Mercadona). The airport is approx. 30 min by car (airport pick-ups are not required). A full-time cleaner is employed for the season. During time in Ibiza a return flight to Milan (or to an EU destination at the equivalent cost) is provided every 6 weeks (over 3-5 days). _______

The Principal and his family live very healthily and meals are light and fresh, very low in carbs (no breads) and high in proteins (grilled fish or chicken) including fresh salads with vegetables, roasted vegetables, simple pasta dishes, soups, eggs/ omelettes, stir-fries or simple Asian dishes, occasional meat dishes. Recipes and examples of favourite meals can be provided and eventually the Senior Housekeeper/ Cook chooses or suggests what to cook daily. Most Fridays and Saturdays the Principals eat out when the Senior Housekeeper/ Cook is off duty. The properties are run semi-formal with some service provided (greeting guests, table service, drinks service). There is no uniform and the dress code is smart casual (usually black in Milan). The role reports to the Principal when in residence and there is a Private PA.

Duties of the Senior Housekeeper/ Cook:

• Carrying out housekeeping duties and ensuring properties are to high standards (supported by seasonal housekeeping staff in Ibiza) including mopping, dusting, wiping, polishing, vacuuming and cleaning windows
• Ensuring terraces and outdoor furniture are clean and swept (Ibiza)
• Overseeing laundry (using minimal chemicals), while in Milan (laundry for one person only)
• Managing wardrobe and seasonal change overs (one person)
• Packing and unpacking
• Overseeing inventories
• Preparing homes for arrivals (travel in advance), opening and closing properties
• Purchasing and arranging fresh flowers
• Welcoming guests/ visitors at the door
• Deep cleaning properties when residence not used
• Overseeing stocks for cleaning materials and toiletries
• Shopping for groceries, fresh produce and storing items
• Laying tables beautifully and serving each course
• Preparing and cooking breakfast, light lunches and simple dinners (when Principal in residence, except for most Fridays and Saturdays in Ibiza when they eat out)
• Clearing after dinner and keeping the kitchen clean and tidy
• Some light household administration
• Managing maintenance/ garden and pool coordination (Ibiza)
• Running errands

Requirements:

• Must have EU passport and be legal to work in Italy/ Spain
• Fluency in Italian and English, Spanish a plus
• Clean driver license
• A min. of 5 years´ experience within a private family household and strong housekeeping foundations
• Longevity in past roles a must
• Great organizational and high end housekeeping skills
• Confident cook (simple Mediterranean style fresh meals)
• Must be none smoking
• Some management experience is an advantage
• Ideally experienced in working in warm climates (familiar with humidity, sun damage, sand, etc.)
• Must have excellent presentation skills and a keen eye for detail
• Written references from past employers
• Recent security check

The family is charming, warm, relaxed, open and approachable and are keen to welcome a lovely candidate for a long term commitment. The Principal has a keen eye for design and beauty and it is an essential part of the role that things are presented well with style and detail. Candidates should be energetic, flexible, calm, organized, discreet and comfortable working independently and reliably with a happy outlook.

A short paid trial period is anticipated in Milan or Ibiza.

Accommodation:        Live-in or live-out role for Milan (live-in accommodation within the apartment is an en-suit bedroom) Live-in for Ibiza (en-suite bedroom with direct access to garden). All food/ drink is supplied with access to the kitchen/ the villa and garden on days off. Candidates are able to use the community gym and spa and can borrow the car when available.  On rare occasions the Senior Housekeeper/ Cook would travel for a short period to help out at the London property in Knightsbridge. Live-in accommodation provided.

Hours:  In Milan when Principal is in residence, 3-5 days/ week, 8-9 hrs a day including weekends, if required.              When the Principal is NOT in residence, Mon – Fri, 2-3 hrs a day to clean/ prepare or run errands, the rest of the day is free.              In Ibiza 6 days/ week, 8-9 hrs a day (e.g. 8am- 2.30pm and 7pm- 9.30pm with flexibility) and a return trip to Milan or an equivalent EU destination (approx. 3-5 days) every 6 weeks

Salary:  €40000 – €60000 gross a year depending on experience under a CCNL Lavoro Domestico (COLF) contract. From this the employee pays IRPEF income tax once a year which nets the employee approx. € 2600 - 3800 net (x 13 months).