Estate Manager / Personal Assistant & Lifestyle Manager job (M/F) in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq

Estate & Property Management

• Take overall responsibility for the daily operation and presentation of the estate.
• Ensure the main residence, guesthouse and surrounding facilities are maintained to exceptional standards.
• Conduct regular property inspections and follow up on any issues identified.
• Coordinate preventative maintenance, repairs, renovations and improvement projects.
• Manage contractors, suppliers, technicians and external service providers.
• Establish and maintain household procedures, policies, manuals and SOPs.
• Ensure residences are fully prepared ahead of family arrivals, VIP visits and private events.
• Monitor household inventories, equipment and consumables.
• Coordinate procurement and ensure appropriate stock levels are maintained.
• Oversee operational expenditure and household budgets.
• Monitor costs and identify opportunities for efficient resource management.
• Ensure all household departments communicate effectively and operate according to agreed standards.

Leadership & Household Staff Management

With approximately 25 household employees, the successful candidate will provide strong leadership across multiple departments.

The team includes, among others:

• Head Butler and Butlers
• Head Housekeeper and Housekeepers
• Private Chef
• Gardeners
• Technicians
• Drivers
• Security personnel
• Other domestic and support staff

Responsibilities include:

• Lead and coordinate the complete household team.
• Manage department heads and senior household personnel.
• Recruit new staff when required, including interviewing and onboarding.
• Establish clear reporting lines, responsibilities and standards of performance.
• Prepare staffing schedules, duty rosters and work assignments.
• Monitor individual and departmental performance.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Develop and coordinate staff training and professional development.
• Establish standards covering service, etiquette, presentation, grooming and confidentiality.
• Ensure all employees understand and follow household protocols.
• Address staffing issues and resolve conflicts professionally.
• Encourage effective communication and cooperation between departments.
• Maintain a positive, disciplined and service-focused working environment.
• Mentor department heads and ensure consistent standards throughout the estate.

Personal Assistant & Lifestyle Management

The successful candidate will also provide high-level personal support to the Principal and family.

Duties will include:

• Act as a trusted point of contact for personal and lifestyle-related matters.
• Manage calendars, appointments, meetings and daily schedules.
• Coordinate domestic and international travel arrangements.
• Organise flights, visas, accommodation, ground transportation and detailed itineraries.
• Manage invitations, correspondence and RSVP requirements.
• Coordinate personal shopping and errands.
• Assist with wardrobe organisation and management.
• Support the care and administration of valuable personal assets and collections, including artwork, jewellery and other possessions.
• Coordinate personal and household expenses and approved payments.
• Assist with lifestyle arrangements and special requests.
• Liaise with family offices, advisers, assistants and other professional contacts.
• Coordinate external service providers as required.

Hospitality & Events

The estate regularly accommodates family members, VIP guests and official visitors. The Estate Manager will therefore oversee the operational aspects of private hospitality and events.

Responsibilities include:

• Coordinate private dinners, family gatherings, receptions and formal functions.
• Work closely with the culinary and household teams on menus, service and guest requirements.
• Coordinate guest accommodation and transportation.
• Organise event logistics and operational requirements.
• Oversee preparation of dining areas, table settings, décor and floral arrangements.
• Ensure guest areas are fully prepared before arrival.
• Coordinate entertainment and other guest requirements when requested.
• Maintain high standards of VIP guest service throughout events.
• Anticipate guest requirements and ensure a seamless experience.
• Supervise event preparation, execution and post-event organisation.

Security, Privacy & Confidentiality

Discretion and confidentiality are fundamental to this position.

The Estate Manager will:

• Maintain absolute discretion regarding the family’s personal, professional and business affairs.
• Ensure household staff adhere to confidentiality requirements.
• Work closely with the security team to protect the privacy and safety of the family and guests.
• Monitor compliance with estate security procedures.
• Assist with emergency and contingency planning.
• Act as a senior point of contact during emergencies.
• Ensure appropriate procedures are followed during VIP visits and special events.