
← Life in Private Staffing6 May · 46 min
S7 E6 - Steven Walker - From the Royal Navy to Royal Households - 40 Years in Private Service Across 5 Continents
<p>What does a 40-year career in private service really look like?</p><p>In this episode of <em>Life in Private Staffing</em>, Philippa is joined by Steven — an industry professional whose career spans decades, continents, and some of the most prestigious private households in the world.</p><p>From his early days in the <strong>Royal Navy</strong>, Steven shares how discipline, structure and opportunity led him into private service — landing roles working with <strong>royalty, UHNW families, and global principals</strong> across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.</p><p>Having worked across five continents in roles ranging from <strong>butlering and house management to palace operations and staff training</strong>, Steven offers a rare, honest insight into how the industry has evolved — and what it really takes to succeed at the highest level today.</p><p>They discuss everything from travelling the world with UHNW families, managing large-scale private households, and working within royal environments — to the modern reality of <strong>smaller teams, faster-paced roles, and changing expectations in luxury service</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode, Philippa and Steven cover:</p><p>💼 Transitioning from the Royal Navy into private service<br>🌍 Working with royalty and UHNW families across 5 continents<br>✈️ The reality of travelling roles and global private households<br>🏠 The shift from large teams to smaller, more dynamic structures<br>🎯 Why discipline, adaptability and discretion are essential<br>📈 How the private staffing industry has evolved over time<br>🎓 Moving into training and giving back to the next generation</p><p>A fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at a career built at the very top of private service — and an honest reflection on how the industry is changing.</p><p><br></p><p>Resources & Links:</p><p>🔗 Visit www.silverswanrecruitment.com<br>🎧 Follow <em>Life in Private Staffing</em> on Spotify or Apple Podcasts<br>📱 Join our Silver Swan Communities – email <a href="" rel="noopener">enquiries@silverswanrecruitment.com</a><br>💬 Follow us on Instagram @silverswanrecruitment, @silverswanpodcast and LinkedIn Silver Swan Recruitment</p>