Martin Blake, Footman
I am a Footman and work as part of G Branch within the Master of the Household’s Department, based at Buckingham Palace. I joined the Household in October 2006.
How did you get your job with the Royal Household?
I was working for a private household and they suggested that if I wanted to really make a career out of service, then the Royal Household would offer the best training and career opportunities. I visited the website and completed an application form; I then took part in a telephone interview before being invited to an assessment day.
How would you advise someone looking for a job in this area?
I would definitely suggest gaining some experience in the hospitality and catering industry before applying for a role; either working in a hotel, restaurant or similar. You also need to really enjoy working in a team, take pride in offering high quality service and be able to use initiative. You also can’t be afraid of a bit of hard work!
What training and support is available to you?
Training is a large part of the job. For the first few weeks you shadow a more experienced member of the team until they feel you can work on your own. There are always senior team members, or Pages you can ask and everyone is always willing to help and offer reassurance.
All new members of the team also follow a structured on-the-job training programme which enables you to experience all aspects of the role in detail, which is really beneficial. You also have the option of gaining a City and Guilds Diploma in Butlering, which is a nationally recognised qualification.
Describe a typical day.
Each day is very different; you really don’t have a day that is the same, but that keeps you on your toes and stops the job becoming repetitive. One day I might be working on the Privy Purse Door greeting guests, or serving at a banquet, the next I could be working in the silver pantry or riding on the back of a horse drawn carriage. Whatever the task, providing first class service is always the main objective and all the team take great pride in this aspect of the role.
What is the best thing about your job?
The experience that you get is second to none. Some of the team are lucky to travel abroad when The Queen attends overseas State Visits which is a great experience.
Most of the Footmen also live in accommodation at one of the Palaces. This is great as there is a real community amongst those who live in, and not many people have the opportunity to live right in the centre of London.
I also get to make my Mum very proud!
What other activities are you involved in?
I am a member of the Royal Household Sports and Social Club, which entitles you to use the swimming pool and squash courts in the Palace. There are also a range of other activities organised where you can meet people from other Departments who you wouldn’t normally come into contact with.
