Head Butler for ORIENT EXPRESS SAILING YACHTS

• Job ID: 47892
• Rank: Butler Manager
• Employment Type: Contract
• Joining Date: Mar 1, 2026
• Type of Vessel: Passenger Ship
• Engine Details: Wartsila 25DF
• DWT / GRT: 16200

For the past 140 years, Orient Express has been sublimating the Art of Travel with luxury trains, unique experiences and collections of rare objects. And soon the heritage of this legendary train will be transported to a collection of hotels and sailing yachts around the world. Introducing a new art de vivre, a different kind of journey that promises unforgettable moments along the way and the same destination since the beginning: to make dreams come true.

V.Ships Leisure are the exclusive hiring partner for Orient Express and are now recruiting for roles for the new build team, based in the shipyard before sailing with the vessel. 

We are looking for an experienced Heads Butler ready to join the vessel in early 2026

Position Summary

The Head Butler creates the “Orient Express” experience by bringing a personalized and curated level of service to Guests in their suites and throughout the vessel. 

The Head Butler manages the Butlers team on a daily basis, including scheduling, resolving issues pro- actively and efficiently, training and coaching, etc.

The Head Butler always provides a personal six-star service to all guests.

Required Responsibilities

• Provides a personalized, varied and professional guest service expected of a world-class butler service.
• Ensures that each Butler under his/her supervision reports to their assignment on time and properly groomed and dressed - clean uniform and proper shoes, name tag, and any other uniform-related items.
• Ensures that during embarkation all Butlers go to the guest suites assigned to them, introduce themselves and explain the services they will be offering during the voyage.
• Responds to guest complaints in a considerate, professional and positive manner by showing concern and listening actively and reports all complaints for following up.
• Active participation in onboard training programs.
• Responsible for the management, update and communication of the rotation plan for crew members in collaboration with the hotel director and assistant purser.
• Communicates consistently with all onboard services on guest requests and issues and issues a daily report to the hotel director.
• Conducts staff’ orientation and mid/end contract performance evaluations and makes recommendations for promotion. Introduces new crew members to their working areas and to the rules and regulations on board.
• Performs Butlers duties as required and/or on selected VIP suites. Duties as such as similar as those described in the butler’s job description (please refer to ‘job description butler’).

Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s)

• Attain target KPI’s, any deviation of target is required to have an explanation with plan to reach goal
• KPI’s will be measured on Guest & Crew Satisfaction; goals and expectations will be defined by Orient Express shore management
• KPI’s are used as a measure for performance

 
Key Behavioral Indicators (KBI’s)

• Demonstrate a professional, elegant and consistent behavior towards Guests and Crew, reflecting Orient Express’ levels of service
• Pro-active, problem-solving attitude to excel in the delivery of their assigned tasks and duties
• Willingness to learn and grow within a team of high-level professionals
• Adheres to perfect grooming and uniform standards consistently (shaving, body odor, appropriate hair style with no non-natural color, no excessive jewelry, clean hands, clean/pressed uniform as per standard)
• Lead by example: The head butler is an ambassador of Orient Express’ work philosophy and demonstrates a congenial yet effective management style, treating crew members with respect and fairness at all times

Qualifications and Experience required

• Languages: Fluent English and French, and one additional international languages prefered (French, Spanish, Mandarin, German)
• Education: High school degree or related. Formal training in an established Europe-based Butler school mandatory
• Previous professional experience: 2 – 3 years in a similar capacity in a luxury environment
• Shipboard experience: Not required but preferred

Certification required

• Valid STCW certificates
• Valid Pre-Employment Medical
• C1D visa mandatory for all positions

 
General requirements

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Be physically fit to stand for at least 10 hours per day and be able to lift at least 50 lbs (~22 kgs) without assistance
• Male candidates must be at least 5’1” (156 cm) tall. Females must be at least 4’9” (150 cm) tall
• Ability to speak, understand and comprehend English at an acceptable level. Additional language requirements are applicable for certain front of the house positions
• Ability to work and live in a structured yet multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment
• Ability to apply common sense and to carry out instructions furnished in written or oral form
• Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, crawl and balance
• No visible tattoos when wearing short sleeved, shorts or skirts