Estate Operations Director

About the role

We are seeking a seasoned operations leader to own and oversee an international residential portfolio on behalf of a Forbes Council CEO. This remote, full‑time position combines hands‑on property management with the strategic leadership needed to build high‑performing, multi‑location teams.

Key responsibilities

• Lead household teams—including drivers, chefs, housemaids, maintenance crews, and gardeners—across all properties, handling scheduling, performance, and employment decisions.
• Maintain a flawless portfolio by establishing a standardized House Manual and SOP system that prevents asset failures or service lapses from reaching the principal.
• Renegotiate vendor contracts, enforce cost‑discipline, and manage budgets with single‑point accountability.
• Design and operate verification, reporting, and escalation processes that provide full visibility into the remote portfolio.
• Codify a portable service standard that ensures consistent quality across jurisdictions, staff turnover, and new property onboarding.

Required profile

• 5+ years in private residential management, luxury hospitality, or a comparable high‑service environment.
• Proven experience leading teams of ten or more and making independent people‑operations decisions.
• Demonstrated ability to build operational systems from scratch and resolve problems proactively.
• Experience managing multiple properties across different countries and supporting high‑net‑worth principals.
• Fluent English; additional languages are a plus.

Required skills

• Strong vendor management and budget discipline.
• Proficiency with AI tools in a professional setting.

What we offer

• Competitive total annual compensation up to $192,500 (base up to $175,000 plus performance bonus).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Fully remote work with global reach.