Titles are cheap; responsibilities are not. The right hire depends on how many hours each week truly belong to childcare versus operations—vendors, itineraries, staff morale, and “what happens when plans change.”
When a nanny is the right center of gravity
Choose a nanny-led model when a child's calendar, developmental needs, and daily caregiving absorb most of the role. Administrative work should remain the exception, not half the job description.
When a household manager earns the seat
If you are coordinating estates, travel, multiple households, or layered staff—and children still need coverage—you may need distinct lanes: a manager who architects the week and caregivers who execute within it.
Hybrid is fine; ambiguity is not
Many homes blend light PA or family-office work with childcare. Write percentages, not vibes. Clarity keeps compensation fair and turnover low.