Downing previously worked for Maryland-based Susan Gage Caterers and prior to that he worked at the Reagan White House.
The Chief Bailiff of the White House manages the residence and works closely with the First Lady and her office. The Chief Bailiff manages the 55,000 square foot, six storey White House residence and supervises a permanent staff of approximately 100 people. The Chief Bailiff responds to all concerns of the President and the First Lady about their home, hires and fires staff, and manages funds allocated by Congress to operate the home, including the costs of heating, lighting , air conditioning and staff salaries.
The position was previously non-partisan, with the chief bailiffs remaining from one administration to another. Gary Walters was Chief Bailiff from 1986 to 2007.
