Butler-In-Training, The Savoy Hotel

The Savoy, a Fairmont Managed Hotel, is one of the world's most iconic hotels. A renowned leaders in the hospitality industry, The Savoy has a reputation for outstanding service and excellence. Originally built in 1889, the hotel has a rich history and has played host to royalty, world leaders and legends of the stage and screen. Today, colleagues pride themselves on being innovative and inspirational, delivering the very best in five star luxury. Passionate about developing and promoting talent, The Savoy offers unwavering support and recognition to colleagues, as well as having a very competitive benefits plan.

Job Title: Butler-In-Training  

Department: Butlers, Front of House  

Inspired and Supported by: Head Butler  

1-year fixed term contract

Salary: £35,707 (including service charge)

Your purpose will be: To deliver an exceptional, seamless guest experience and memorable personalisation at every opportunity; building meaningful relationships with our guests throughout their stay securing their future loyalty while learning and developing self on 5-star luxury standards service with regards to all the departments a Butler can and will work with. 

You will be accountable for: 

• Passionately and expertly creating a 5 star luxury guest experience, characterised by flawless efficiency and authentic emotional connection 

• Taking ownership of any guest request which comes your way seeing it through until completion 

• Maximising internal communication networks, adapting to new working methods and supporting all key players to ensure a smooth guest journey 

• Cross training and examinations in different departments while continuing operations in your own role 

Your key responsibilities & contribution will be: 

• Devise guest itineraries, making bookings and reservations while providing relevant recommendations to surprise and delight 

• Provide butler services, special/VIP room set ups, amenities, deliveries to rooms 

• Communicate clearly with other teams and through RSM to ensure efficient service for our guests 

• Seek opportunities to surprise and delight our guests 

• Meet all service standards in every guest interaction 

• Promote and nurture positive relationships in the local area strengthening our position in the marketplace 

• Pay keen attention to guest preferences and update profiles accordingly 

• Cover the night shift including assistance with preparation of the night audit 

Your development plan entails a structured monthly cross-training program spanning five days, covering various aspects of hotel operations across 15 different departments. Each month, you will engage in hands-on learning and assessment sessions with the Head Butler. Activities include shadowing department heads, practicing service standards, assisting in operational tasks, and presenting acquired knowledge for evaluation. The departments you will be cross-training with are: Housekeeping, Laundry, Guest Relations, Reservations, Guest Services, Concierge, Florist, Beauty and Fitness, In-Room Dining, Bars, Culinary, Events, Back of House, and Quality Control, culminating in a year-end evaluation by the Head Butler and issuance of a certificate upon program completion. This dynamic approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of hotel operations and fosters professional growth within the hospitality industry. 

What you will need to do in this role? 

• Hospitality Experience: Prior experience in the hospitality industry, preferably in a similar role, is highly desirable.  

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential for effectively interacting with guests, colleagues, and department heads. The ability to converse fluently in English is typically required, with additional languages being advantageous. 

• Service Excellence: Applicants should have a passion for delivering exceptional service and exceeding guest expectations. A customer-centric approach, along with the ability to anticipate and fulfil guest needs, is crucial. 

• Team Collaboration: The Under Butler role involves working closely with various departments and colleagues across the hotel. Candidates should be team players, capable of collaborating effectively with others to achieve common goals. 

• Adaptability: The hospitality industry is dynamic, requiring individuals who can adapt quickly to changing situations and environments. Flexibility in work schedules and tasks is often necessary to meet the demands of the role. 

• Attention to Detail: The role involves executing tasks with precision and paying close attention to detail. Applicants should demonstrate meticulousness in their work, ensuring accuracy and consistency in all aspects of service delivery. 

• Professionalism: Applicants should present themselves in a professional manner at all times, reflecting the values and standards of the hotel. This includes maintaining a neat appearance, adhering to dress codes, and upholding ethical conduct. 

• Initiative: Demonstrating initiative and a proactive approach to tasks is highly valued. Applicants should be self-motivated and willing to take on additional responsibilities to contribute to the overall success of the team and hotel. 

• Problem-solving Skills: The ability to think critically and resolve issues effectively is essential in the hospitality industry. Applicants should demonstrate resourcefulness and resilience in addressing challenges that may arise during their duties. 

• Willingness to Learn: Continuous learning and development are integral to success in the Under Butler role. Applicants should be open to feedback, receptive to training, and committed to personal and professional growth within the organization. 

• Eligibility to live and work in the UK without a sponsorship 

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive salary and benefits including pension and life assurance
• 31 days of holiday including public holidays (prorated to your time at The Savoy)
• Laundry services & dry cleaning for uniform
• Colleague restaurant
• Colleague gym facility
• Employee assistance program
• 50% discount at our iconic American & Beaufort Bars
• 50% discount at our world-famous Afternoon Tea
• 50% discount at our spa and florist
• Savoy hotel discount and discount across Accor hotels worldwide
• 50% discount at Gordon Ramsay's River Restaurant and Savoy Grill 
• 20% at Gordon Ramsay restaurants outside the hotel