What does a chief of staff do: roles and responsibilities of a majordomo

A majordomo standing with a team of household staff

A chief of staff in a private residence, commonly known as a majordomo, is the central leader of household staffing and operations. They make sure every aspect of the home runs smoothly, staff are coordinated effectively, and homeowners can enjoy family time without being burdened by logistics or daily decision-making.

In sophisticated homes with multiple staff members and complex schedules, a chief of staff is both a strategic planner and an operational leader, bringing clarity, efficiency, and discretion to the household.

  1. What does a chief of staff do in a private household?

  2. The role of a majordomo within your household staffing team

  3. A day in the life of a majordomo

1) What does a chief of staff do in a private household?

A household chief of staff, or majordomo, oversees the day-to-day management and strategic organization of private residences. Unlike traditional household staff members who focus on specific tasks, the majordomo maintains a bird’s-eye view of the home, anticipating needs, resolving issues before they arise, and ensuring seamless coordination between homeowners, staff, suppliers, and service providers.

In addition to operational oversight, a majordomo provides leadership, mentorship, and guidance to the household team. Their work maintains consistency, high standards, and smooth execution of every household function, from daily routines to special events. By serving as the central point of authority, the majordomo allows all team members to work efficiently and in alignment with your expectations.

At Wilshire Agency, we place experienced majordomos who combine strategic leadership with the discretion and professionalism necessary for high-functioning private residences.

2) The role of a majordomo within your household staffing team

A majordomo is the central leader of household staffing, ensuring every aspect of the home operates smoothly and efficiently. Their role blends strategic oversight with hands-on management, keeping the household running seamlessly.

The core responsibilities of a majordomo include:

  • Leading and guiding the household staff with professionalism

  • Overseeing schedules, travel, and daily operations

  • Coordinating vendors and external partners with discretion

  • Managing budgets, payroll, and household finances

  • Anticipating homeowner needs and handling communications confidentially

  • Establishing systems that maintain consistency, standards, and excellence

In short, the majordomo transforms a collection of staff and tasks into a cohesive, high-functioning household operation. Their leadership creates efficiency, order, and discretion, allowing homeowners to enjoy a smoothly run residence with confidence.

3) A day in the life of a majordomo

A majordomo’s day often begins by reviewing schedules, confirming appointments, and anticipating the needs of the homeowners. The day’s priorities are identified, and each team member is briefed on their responsibilities.

As the day unfolds, the majordomo coordinates deliveries, oversees maintenance, and checks in with vendors and service providers. Travel plans, household events, and any unexpected challenges are handled discreetly, so the home feels seamless and effortless to its residents.

Throughout the day, the majordomo guides staff, manages communications, and addresses potential issues before they arise. Financial oversight, such as monitoring budgets and payroll, is woven seamlessly into daily operations.

Evenings bring a final review, where the majordomo ensures that the day’s operations are complete, staff are prepared for the following day, and the home is maintained to exacting standards.

By carefully curating their daily schedule to meet the needs of your residence, a majordomo becomes a trusted professional who brings peace of mind, consistency, and a unique sense of confidence to your home.


Welcome to Wilshire Agency, a premier household staffing agency specializing in cultivating seamless, high-caliber household teams. We provide Los Angeles' most discerning households with first-rate meal prep chefs, estate managers, housekeepers, family assistants, and more, each devoted to delivering unparalleled service tailored to the unique needs of our esteemed clientele.

If you’re an exceptional professional looking for a prestigious placement, learn more about partnering with Wilshire Agency.

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