Wentworth Lifestyle spoke with Debbie Salter, Managing Director of Domestic Staff Agency, Greycoat Lumleys to learn more about her background and the services the company provides.

Tell us a little about yourself?

I have worked in the recruitment industry for over 30 years, and for the past 14 years, I’ve served as Managing Director of Greycoat Lumleys. When I took on the role, the company had a team of 16 and today, we have grown to 50 employees and have consistently expanded the business year on year.

With a Malaysian mother and an Irish father, I was raised primarily in the Far East and educated at a boarding school in Ireland. This multicultural upbringing has shaped me into the diverse and adaptable individual I am today.

My career in recruitment began quite unexpectedly. After arriving in London 35 years ago in search of temporary work, I registered at a Reed Employment office, only to be asked to manage one of their branches. I had planned to stay in London for just six months, but I’ve been here ever since.

What services do Greycoat Lumley offer and what sets us apart

We are a leading brand in the recruitment industry, renowned for providing high-quality staff to Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW), High Net Worth (HNW), and mass affluent clients. In addition, we have developed a strong reputation in the Catering and Hospitality sector, where our premium staffing services have seen remarkable growth.

At the heart of our business are our core values and our unwavering commitment to delivering a five-star, luxury service. We pride ourselves on being discreet, honest, solutions-driven, passionate, respectful and friendly.

What truly sets us apart is the depth and quality of our client and candidate network, built over nearly 30 years in the industry. Our team includes specialist consultants with long tenures at the company, bringing a wealth of expertise and continuity that few others in the sector can match.

What Areas do you specialise in?

We specialise in Household & Estate Management, Childcare, and Catering & Hospitality. Our services cover a wide range of roles, including House Managers, Chefs, Chauffeurs, Housekeepers, Nannies, and everything in between. We also provide highly experienced Couples capable of managing estates, and can support one-off events such as dinner parties with our expert, Michelin-starred chefs.

Additionally, we supply Personal Assistants and staff Directors’ Dining Rooms for major institutions. Our reach has expanded to include premium staffing for high-profile sporting events and stadiums both within and outside of London.

Have there been changes in the industry in recent years?

Absolutely. The landscape has shifted significantly since Covid. We’ve seen a rise in small agencies entering the market, but also several unable to survive the evolving economic conditions. Factors such as Brexit, the war in Ukraine, political changes, and new policies like VAT on private school fees have contributed to a tightening in available roles.

Despite these challenges, Greycoat Lumleys has bucked the trend. Since 2021, we’ve not only maintained our position but continued to grow, demonstrating the resilience of our brand and the trust clients place in our services.

Where is the Most Unusual Place You have Found Staff

As an international agency, we've placed staff in over 25 countries, including the West Indies, the USA, the Middle East, Australia, and the Far East. Thanks to our Edinburgh office, we've also taken on more remote and unique assignments, such as sourcing staff for clients on the Isle of Islay and other secluded Scottish islands. No location is too far or too unusual when it comes to meeting our clients’ needs.

What Do I Love Most About My Job?

I can honestly say I’ve never woken up and not wanted to go to work. I rarely work from home because I genuinely enjoy the camaraderie, energy, and humour of being in the office. Our client and candidate base is incredibly diverse and fascinating, and I’m fortunate to work alongside an exceptionally talented team who are not only hardworking but know how to have fun too.

What makes this role so fulfilling is being part of a vibrant, values-driven company culture. Our shared beliefs have shaped Greycoat Lumleys into something truly special, and it’s this unique environment that motivates me to keep building, nurturing, and growing the business every day.

Greycoat Lumleys is a Wentworth Lifestyle Partner