A Dubai-based consultancy is seeking candidates for positions such as house managers, pet nannies, and sober coaches for elite families in the UAE, with some roles offering salaries up to Dh45,000. Many of these job openings are not publicly advertised to maintain privacy.
Lynsay Kilbane, the founder of Mama Consultancy, outlined some of the roles her firm recruits for. “We primarily focus on nannies, maternity nurses, governesses, butlers, chefs, and house managers,” she told Khaleej Times. “Recently, we have also been tasked with filling unique positions like full-time masseuses, pet nannies, and sober coaches.” The consultancy, which specializes in staffing solutions for High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWI) and high-income families globally, has noted that salaries for these roles differ based on location and job requirements.
“Childcare positions typically range from Dh20,000 to Dh30,000 per month,” Lynsay explained. “House and estate managers usually command the highest salaries, ranging from Dh30,000 to Dh45,000, depending on the role, responsibilities, and location. In Saudi Arabia, for instance, employers tend to be very generous. Families are seeking highly educated, well-trained professionals who can be flexible, maintain discretion, and perform their duties to the highest standard.”
Lynsay highlighted that ensuring privacy and discretion is one of the main challenges when hiring for elite families. “Not all jobs are advertised publicly due to privacy concerns, and I personally select candidates for these roles,” she said. “With 15 years in the industry, I have built a network of trusted and respected candidates over the years. We also post some of the roles on our own job portal.” Another challenge she faces is the urgency with which clients require staffing solutions. “I have worked through the night to ensure clients get the staff they need quickly,” she said. “For example, I have placed a governess within 24 hours of receiving a client call.”
Despite these challenges, Lynsay’s dedication and discretion have led to repeat business. “One of my long-term clients has me place staff in all of his children’s homes,” she shared. “He has seven adult children with separate households and staffing needs worldwide. We have helped around 50 affluent families find staff who align with their values and contribute positively to their homes.”
Lynsay explained that the UAE’s domestic worker landscape is unique and can pose challenges when hiring. “It can be difficult to convey to candidates that I am looking for professionals with specific formal qualifications and experience,” she said. “For instance, the role of a nanny in the UAE differs significantly from that in Europe.” She advised job seekers to ensure they have the relevant qualifications and experience when applying for such positions. “You need the correct qualifications and experience to work in affluent households,” she said. “For example, a career as an air steward does not qualify you for a butler role, and babysitting family members does not make you a qualified nanny.”
She also emphasized that the private household industry is highly competitive. “We have candidates who have dedicated their careers to being the most discreet and skilled experts in their fields,” she said. Given this competitive environment, she stressed the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, good manners, and not taking rejections personally. “Working in a private household is a sensitive role. Even if you meet all the requirements on paper, the principal may be seeking something very specific. Always thank the agent and client for their time and move on.”
