Live in accommodation, free meals and 33 days holiday are just some of the perks on offer for Buckingham Palace's latest job vacancy. The Royal Household is currently looking for a new chauffeur to drive the Queen, members of the royal family and household guests around on their day-to-day business.
The rare position is open to prospective candidates with a valid UK driving licence and professional driving experience. The successful applicant will need to be a good team player, and of course, remain calm under pressure when driving members of the royal family around.
The Queen needs a new chauffeur
As well as transporting the Queen, the royal chauffeur will also be responsible for keeping the vehicles in immaculate condition and planning efficient driving routes.
With a 48 hours per week contract, the permanent position comes with the added benefit of "live-in" accommodation (deducted from salary) and meals provided. The vacancy is advertised as part of the Royal Mews – the section of the Royal Household responsible for maintaining royal vehicles.
The job description explains that the new chauffeur will "play an integral part in the smooth daily running of the Royal Household", and can look forward to "working in a unique and stimulating work environment".
The chauffeur will maintain the royal fleet of cars
Among the fleet of cars that the lucky candidate could expect to drive is the Queen's 2002 Bentley, which serves as her primary car for state and ceremonial occasions. Others include a number of Range Rovers and Land Rovers, which famously don't have number plates – her Majesty isn't legally required to have them.
Applications close on 8 March, and candidates are expected to undergo a rigorous selection process.
The new chauffeur will be joining at a busy time for the Royal family; Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton, will welcome their second child in April, and the Queen will also celebrate her 89th birthday in the same month.