Catz People: Introducing Our New College Butler, Efi Barda
In this edition of Catz People, we shine a light on Efi, our newly appointed College Butler, who helps to shape the conversations, clinks, and perfectly polished moments that make Catz… Catz.
St Catherine’s College is full of people who quietly shape the rhythm and atmosphere of College life, and few do so more directly than Efi. Though her title is new, Efi is anything but: she has been part of the Catz community for 12 years, becoming a familiar and much-loved presence in Hall and at College events. Now, as she steps into the role of Butler, we sat down with her to learn more about the path that brought her here, the art of great hospitality, and what she loves most about life at Catz…
Efi first arrived at Catz drawn by the College’s reputation for being, as she puts it, “a little different.” “Catz has this blend of bold, modern architecture and a strong, genuine sense of community,” she says. “My very first impression was how open and approachable it felt. There’s no intimidating formality, just warmth, friendliness, and the feeling that everyone belongs.” That atmosphere is what convinced her to stay, and 12 years later, she remains as committed to the College as ever.
“Think of me as the person who turns occasions into experiences!”
The Butler oversees the College’s hospitality, from formal dinners to receptions and special events, ensuring that every detail is just right. Asked how she describes the role of College Butler, Efi smiles. “Think of me as the person who turns occasions into experiences,” she says.
“It’s a job that blends tradition with warmth. We keep alive the rituals that make Catz distinctive, but the hospitality should always feel effortless and genuine. My role is about attention to detail and teamwork, coordinating behind the scenes so that, for guests, the evening feels seamless.”
That eye for detail is one of her favourite parts of the job. She takes particular pleasure in the small rituals: perfectly aligned glasses, polished silver, and the quiet choreography of service during Formal Hall. “Those little touches might seem minor, but they’re what make an evening feel special.”
In her first year as Butler, Efi is most excited about building new relationships and strengthening old ones. “Every event is a chance to bring people together,” she says. She also hopes to introduce a few subtle refinements to service: “small touches that make College hospitality feel even more distinctive.” At the heart of it all, she insists, is people. “The best dinners aren’t remembered for the cutlery,” she says, “but for the conversations and connections around the table.”
Her approach is deeply collaborative: working closely with the Hall & SCR team, the Head Chef, and colleagues across College to create evenings that feel warm, polished, and welcoming, without guests ever noticing the work behind the scenes.
“If people notice the service, you’re doing it wrong.”
True hospitality, she says, should feel effortless, and that only happens through teamwork. “Behind every smooth dinner is a whole crew moving in sync: the Chefs, the Hall & SCR staff, everyone playing their part like a well-rehearsed orchestra. When we work together, guests don’t see the mechanics, they just experience the moment. And that’s what makes a great evening memorable.”
The best advice she has ever received in hospitality sums up her philosophy: “If people notice the service, you’re doing it wrong.”
Finally, we asked: If Catz were a guest at a dinner party, what kind of guest would they be? Efi didn’t hesitate. “Catz would be the guest who brings an unusual bottle of wine, tells a great story, and makes sure everyone feels included. Stylish but approachable, clever but never pretentious.” It’s hard to imagine a better description.
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Want to nominate someone for a future Catz People feature? We’re always keen to spotlight the people who make this College special. Send your suggestions to collegecomms@stcatz.ox.ac.uk.