House Manager

House Manager: Cape Town

Location: Cape Town, South Africa Property: Private five-bedroom luxury villa Reports to: The Group General Manager, Sales and Marketing, and the Directors

About the role

We are looking for an experienced House Manager to run a private five-bedroom luxury villa in Cape Town. You will lead the day-to-day operation of the villa, look after guests and owner with quiet, refined service, and act as a warm, capable host to the travel trade as we introduce our new group brand.

This is a rare role that combines household management, butler-level guest service and trade relationship building. It suits someone who takes real pride in the details and is equally at ease running a team, pouring the right wine, or welcoming a group of travel agents.

What you will doRun the villa

• Oversee the daily running of the villa, keeping every area to a five-star luxury standard

• Supervise household staff and external providers, including cleaners, gardeners and contractors

• Manage household accounts, budgets and inventories

• Coordinate maintenance so that issues are spotted and resolved promptly, without disturbing owners or guests

• Put in place and maintain systems for organisation, scheduling and reporting

• Train the team to keep raising the guest experience

Look after guests

• Provide refined, discreet service, anticipating needs and ensuring the highest level of comfort

• Welcome and host guests with impeccable etiquette

• Deliver formal table service, including wine pairing, bar service and event support

• Coordinate travel logistics, restaurant reservations and other guest requirements

• Prepare breakfast for guests

• Always maintain absolute discretion and confidentiality

Build our trade relationships (marketing and sales)

Most of our business comes through travel agents and tour operators, so this part of the role is about building relationships rather than selling to the public. You will:

• Build and maintain relationships with agents, operators and DMCs

• Run product trainings in operators' offices, in person and online

• Plan and host agent activations and events at Nalu, and find creative ways to build momentum

around the villa, the lodge and our new group brand

• Host agents and partners on site visits

• Follow up on leads and enquiries, and keep trade contact records up to date

• Support the launch of the new brand into the trade

About you

• Significant experience in a combined house manager and butler role in a private residence, luxury villa or estate

• Strong leadership and organisational skills, with the ability to run a household independently

• Exceptional attention to detail and a proactive, service-minded approach

• Discreet, reliable and adaptable to varied and changing requirements

• Experience hosting agents and site inspections; some sales experience is an advantage

• Flexible to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays

• A valid driver's license

• Eligible to work in South Africa (we are unable to assist with work permits or visas)

How to apply

Please send your CV and a short cover letter to [email protected], with the subject line "House Manager, Nalu". Closing date: 7 November 2026

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.