Jo Harber has a very different way of communication style that’s keep recruitment process smooth and open with candidates. This is a rare thing these days. Jo’s approach is great as she keeps building strong connections by keeping them well-informed. Her personalised communication style helps us candidates to have much better experience while we’re searching for our next role. Thank you so much Jo. Best wishes to you and your team.

Jo at Marshall Harber did a really great job - she understood the brief and was able to find us two great candidates to interview. Unlike many agencies, I found that Marshall Harber was very thorough in vetting candidates before putting them forward so that we were guaranteed two individuals who were well suited to the position and came with good references. In the end the only dilemma was which of the fantastic individuals to offer the job to.

The summer of 2026 has brought repeated heat waves across the UK, making energy use, water conservation, and indoor comfort top of mind for many households. Discerning families are increasingly looking for practical ways to live more sustainably without sacrificing comfort. Household staff — housekeepers, chefs, gardeners, and multi-skilled support — are uniquely placed to make a real difference. At Marshall Harber, we help clients find professionals who understand both high standards of service and modern eco-conscious practices.

Why Sustainable Practices Matter This Summer

High temperatures drive up air-conditioning and cooling costs while increasing pressure on water supplies. Small, consistent changes led by your household team can reduce energy bills, lower environmental impact, and keep homes more comfortable during heatwaves. Many clients now view sustainability as part of a well-run home rather than an optional extra.

Practical Eco-Friendly Actions for Your Team

• Housekeepers: Switch to concentrated, plant-based or refillable cleaning products; use microfibre cloths instead of disposable wipes; wash laundry at lower temperatures and only when full; air-dry where possible instead of relying solely on tumble dryers.
• Chefs & Kitchen Staff: Plan menus around seasonal, local produce; minimise food waste through careful portioning and creative use of leftovers; use lids on pans and batch-cook to reduce energy use; prefer energy-efficient appliances and avoid unnecessary oven pre-heating.
• Gardeners & Outdoor Staff: Water early morning or evening to reduce evaporation; use collected rainwater or grey-water systems where suitable; choose drought-tolerant planting; maintain outdoor furniture and textiles carefully to extend their life.
• Whole-Team Habits: Close curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day to keep interiors cooler; unplug devices when not in use; ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent cooled air escaping.

Benefits for Clients and Staff

These practices typically lower utility bills, improve indoor air quality, and reduce the home’s overall footprint. Staff often appreciate clear guidance and the sense of contributing to a more responsible household. Consistent habits also make homes more resilient during extreme weather.

How to Brief and Support Your Team

Provide clear preferences (for example, preferred eco-products or temperature settings) and lead by example. When hiring or reviewing staff, look for candidates who already understand sustainable routines or are willing to adopt them. A short written checklist or seasonal briefing helps keep everyone aligned.

Marshall Harber’s Approach

We regularly place housekeepers, chefs, and multi-skilled professionals who combine traditional standards of service with an awareness of modern sustainability. Whether you need temporary support during peak summer months or a permanent addition to your team, our vetting process ensures candidates match both your lifestyle and your values.
As temperatures continue to rise, a well-supported household team can help you enjoy summer more comfortably and responsibly. Contact us if you would like to discuss staffing that supports sustainable living.

June 2026 marks the true start of summer, and many discerning UK households are turning their attention to maximising outdoor spaces. Whether you have a London terrace, a country garden, or a coastal retreat, well-supported outdoor living transforms how families enjoy the warmer months. Household staff play a central role in creating and maintaining these inviting environments. At Marshall Harber, we regularly place gardeners, housekeepers, chefs, and versatile estate staff who excel at elevating outdoor experiences.

The Growing Importance of Outdoor Spaces

Longer days and better weather encourage more time spent outside — from morning coffees on the terrace to evening entertaining. A beautifully maintained garden or terrace becomes an extension of the home, but it requires consistent care and thoughtful support from your team.

Key Roles of Household Staff in Outdoor Living

• Gardeners & Grounds Staff: Keep lawns pristine, manage seasonal planting, control weeds, and prepare spaces for summer events.
• Housekeepers: Extend their care outdoors — cleaning outdoor furniture, managing cushions and awnings, and ensuring terraces remain spotless.
• Chefs & Service Staff: Create seamless al fresco dining experiences with outdoor kitchens, barbecue stations, and refined service.
• Multi-skilled Support: Many modern placements handle a blend of indoor/outdoor duties, offering flexibility during the busy summer season.

Practical Tips for Maximising Your Outdoor Areas

• Maintenance Routines: Establish weekly schedules for furniture cleaning, plant care, and pest management.
• Entertaining Preparation: Brief staff on setting up outdoor dining, lighting, and weather contingency plans.
• Comfort & Functionality: Ensure shading, comfortable seating, and easy access to refreshments are always prioritised.
• Sustainability Touches: Encourage water-wise gardening and eco-friendly outdoor cleaning products.

Vetting and Briefing for Outdoor Excellence

When hiring for summer outdoor roles, look for candidates with specific experience in high-end garden maintenance and outdoor hospitality. Clear briefings that include your style preferences, frequency of use, and any specialist equipment (e.g., automated irrigation systems) lead to the best results. Marshall Harber’s vetting process ensures candidates understand both the practical and discretionary aspects of working in private homes.

Marshall Harber’s Support This Summer

We specialise in matching reliable, skilled professionals who enhance your outdoor lifestyle while respecting your privacy and standards. Whether you need dedicated garden support, additional help for summer entertaining, or versatile staff who move effortlessly between indoor and outdoor duties, we can help build the right team.
Make the most of the beautiful months ahead — contact us to discuss your summer staffing needs.

As the days lengthen and lighter evenings return in spring 2026, many discerning UK households turn their attention to a proper seasonal refresh. A deep spring clean does more than remove winter dust — it revitalises your home and sets a positive tone for the busier summer months ahead. The key to success often lies with your housekeeper. At Marshall Harber, we help clients find professionals who can deliver a meticulous, respectful, and efficient deep clean. Here’s how to vet effectively and brief your housekeeper for outstanding results.

Why Spring Cleaning Matters in Discerning Homes

Spring offers the perfect window to tackle areas that accumulate over winter: hidden dust on high surfaces, allergens in soft furnishings, and grime in kitchens and bathrooms. A well-executed clean improves air quality, maximises natural light, and creates a fresh foundation before summer entertaining begins.

What to Look for When Vetting a Housekeeper

When selecting or refreshing your housekeeper for spring, focus on these key qualities during our in-person vetting process or your own interviews:

• Proven Experience in Deep Seasonal Cleans — Ask for specific examples of previous spring or end-of-season refreshes in private homes.
• Attention to Detail & Systematic Approach — Look for candidates who work methodically (room-by-room or zone-by-zone) rather than superficially.
• Knowledge of Surfaces & Fabrics — Ensure they understand safe cleaning methods for antiques, delicate upholstery, high-end appliances, and stone/marble surfaces.
• Discretion and Trustworthiness — References and background checks are essential; a housekeeper enters private spaces and should respect family routines and privacy.
• Eco-Friendly Mindset (Optional but Increasingly Valued) — Many clients now prefer professionals comfortable with natural or low-chemical products, especially for homes with children or sensitive family members.

How to Brief Your Housekeeper Effectively

Clear communication prevents disappointment. Provide a written or shared checklist covering:

• Priority areas (e.g., windows for maximum light, air vents for allergens, oven and fridge interiors).
• Any special instructions for valuables, pets, or restricted rooms.
• Preferred products or eco-friendly alternatives.
• Expected time allocation and standards (e.g., inside cupboards vs surface-only).
• Schedule a short walkthrough together before the deep clean so expectations are aligned.

Practical Spring Refresh Checklist to Share with Your Team

• Wash windows inside and out for brighter spaces.
• Declutter and deep-clean cabinets, drawers, and pantry (discard expired items).
• Vacuum/dust high surfaces, ceiling fans, baseboards, and behind furniture.
• Clean or replace HVAC filters and check smoke detectors.
• Launder curtains, cushion covers, and bedding.
• Focus on kitchen (oven, fridge coils) and bathrooms (grout, limescale).

Marshall Harber’s Role in Your Spring Refresh

We specialise in matching housekeepers who not only clean thoroughly but also understand the nuances of high-end London and UK homes. Whether you need additional temporary help for a one-off deep clean or a permanent addition to your team, our rigorous vetting ensures a seamless fit.
Ready for a fresher, brighter home this spring? Contact us today to discuss your staffing needs.

With UK energy prices still elevated this winter, many discerning households are looking for practical ways to reduce consumption without sacrificing comfort. The good news? Your household staff – housekeepers, chefs, nannies, and house managers – are perfectly placed to help. At Marshall Harber, we’re seeing more clients ask us to place candidates with strong energy-awareness skills. Here are the most effective, staff-led strategies that deliver real savings right now.

1. Heating Habits That Actually Work
* Lower the thermostat by just 1 °C (saves ~£100–£150 per year).
* Use programmable or smart thermostats and train staff to set “away” and “night” schedules.
* Close curtains at dusk and ensure doors are kept closed – simple habits that can cut heat loss by up to 20 %.

2. Kitchen & Laundry Efficiency
* Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full and on eco settings.
* Boil only the water needed in kettles (staff can mark fill lines inside).
* Batch-cook and use lids on pans – reduces oven and hob energy by 30–50 %.

3. Lighting & Small Appliances
* Switch to LED bulbs throughout.
* Create a nightly “power-down” checklist: unplug phone chargers, turn off standby devices, switch off unnecessary lights.

4. Draught-Proofing & Maintenance
* Housekeepers can quickly fit draught excluders, brush strips, and chimney balloons.
* Regular bleeding of radiators and cleaning of filters keeps systems running efficiently.

Why Energy Awareness Is Now a Core Skill
More and more of our clients are listing “energy-conscious” as a non-negotiable requirement when briefing us for new placements. Candidates who arrive with proven habits (such as always closing internal doors, using appliance eco-modes, or understanding smart-heating zones) instantly add value. In an era of persistently high energy prices, these small, daily disciplines are no longer optional extras; they are part of the professionalism expected from top-tier household staff.

How We Help

When placing new staff, we can now include energy-efficiency awareness in our vetting and can provide a short “Winter Savings Checklist” for existing teams. Small changes, consistently applied by trusted staff, add up to significant savings.
Make this winter warmer for your household budget – get in touch if you’d like us to match you with energy-conscious professionals.

In the grand mansions of London—from Belgravia to Kensington—household staff are the unsung heroes who keep everything running smoothly. From housekeepers ensuring pristine environments to chauffeurs navigating busy streets, their contributions often go unnoticed. At Marshall Harber, we celebrate these professionals and their vital roles in discerning homes. Here’s a closer look at how they make a difference.

The Essential Roles of Household Staff
• Housekeepers: They maintain order, from daily cleaning to managing laundry, allowing families to focus on life’s priorities.
• Chauffeurs: Beyond driving, they ensure safety and punctuality, often anticipating needs like route changes.
• Nannies and Chefs: Nannies nurture children with care, while chefs craft meals that suit dietary needs and tastes.
These roles blend skill, discretion, and dedication, forming the backbone of high-end homes.

Challenges and Rewards
Staff face long hours and high expectations, yet the rewards include stable work and meaningful relationships. For clients, the benefit is a seamless lifestyle; for staff, it’s pride in their craft. Recognizing this—through fair pay and appreciation—boosts loyalty.

Marshall Harber’s Commitment
We vet every candidate to ensure they’re the heroes your home needs. Trust us to connect you with staff who excel behind the scenes.

As autumn fades and winter approaches in 2025, UK households need to prepare for colder months. From managing heating to handling holiday demands, household staff—nannies, housekeepers, or chefs—play a crucial role. At Marshall Harber, we help clients build a winter-ready team. Here’s how to strategize for the season ahead.

Key Winter Staffing Roles
• Heating and Maintenance: Housekeepers can oversee boiler checks and insulation, ensuring warmth and safety.
• Holiday Prep: Chefs and staff can plan festive menus and decorations, easing holiday stress.
• Childcare Adjustments: Nannies can adapt to indoor activities and shorter days, keeping children engaged.
Early planning prevents winter disruptions.

Practical Strategies
• Schedule Flexibility: Adjust hours for holiday events or snow days, ensuring coverage.
• Training: Equip staff with winter-specific skills, like safe de-icing or energy-efficient practices.
• Wellness Focus: Support staff with warm breaks to combat cold weather fatigue.
These steps keep your home running smoothly.

Benefits and Considerations
• Benefits: A prepared team reduces stress and enhances home comfort.
• Considerations: Increased workloads—mitigate with clear communication and temporary support.
Marshall Harber ensures your staff are ready for winter’s challenges.

Trust Marshall Harber
Our vetting process matches you with a team tailored for winter demands. Let us help you create a resilient household this season.

As autumn settles in across the UK in 2025, the shift in seasons can impact household staff—nannies, housekeepers, or chefs—through shorter days and colder weather. Supporting their wellness is key to maintaining a harmonious home. At Marshall Harber, we prioritize staff well-being alongside client needs. Here’s how to care for your team this autumn.

Why Autumn Wellness Matters
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects up to 3% of the UK population (NHS, 2025), with live-in staff particularly vulnerable due to limited daylight. Stress from increased workloads (e.g., school runs, holiday prep) also rises. Prioritizing wellness boosts productivity and morale.

Practical Support Strategies
• Lighting and Breaks: Encourage natural light exposure and regular breaks to combat SAD.
• Work-Life Balance: Adjust schedules to allow personal time, especially for live-in staff.
• Wellness Resources: Offer access to mental health support or autumn fitness plans.
 These steps foster a supportive environment.

Benefits and Challenges
• Benefits: Healthier staff, reduced turnover, and a positive home atmosphere.
• Challenges: Time to implement changes—mitigate with clear communication and planning.
• Client Role: Active support from employers enhances trust and loyalty.

Marshall Harber’s Approach
We vet staff with wellness in mind, ensuring they thrive through seasonal shifts. Trust us to match you with a team that’s supported and ready for autumn demands.

As the new school term approaches in August 2025, discerning UK households are adjusting to autumn routines. From school runs to after-school care, household staff play a vital role in this transition. At Marshall Harber, we help clients prepare their teams for a seamless shift. Here’s how to get your staffing ready for back-to-school season.

Key Staffing Adjustments for Autumn
• School Runs and Timetables: Ensure nannies or drivers are aligned with school schedules, including pickups and extracurriculars.
• After-School Support: Housekeepers or nannies can manage homework spaces and snacks, easing family stress.
• Home Maintenance: Prepare for autumn with staff handling garden tidy-ups or heating checks.
Early planning ensures a smooth start.

Roles and Responsibilities
• Nannies: Focus on child safety, punctuality, and educational support.
• Housekeepers: Keep homes organized for busy mornings and adapt to seasonal cleaning needs.
• Chefs: Plan nutritious, quick meals to fit tighter schedules.
Marshall Harber vets staff to match these evolving roles.

Benefits and Tips
• Benefits: Reduced parental workload and a structured home environment.
• Tips: Schedule a pre-term meeting with staff to review routines, and consider temporary help for peak days.
• Challenges: Adjusting to new hours—mitigate with clear communication.

Trust Marshall Harber for the Transition
Our vetting process ensures your staff are prepared for autumn demands. Let us match you with a team that keeps your household running smoothly as school resumes.