Fear

Question
The housekeeper brought a young dog, about 8 months old, he's probably German Shepherd and Husky mix. The idea was for the dog to look after the house, I have never had any problems with dogs, I love dogs, but this one is terrified of me. I decided it should be me who fed him to see if he would be friendlier, but it does not work, I've been feeding him for a month.
When I feed him sometimes I sit nearby, he stretch's to reach the food and with any insignificant move I make he backs up and starts barking . He also does the same with treats.
When I take him for walk on a leash, he's OK, but the moment I let go of the leash he runs away.

Answer
It is quite possible you are the first man he has ever met, or a man abused him in the past.  What you are doing should be working better than it has.  Avoid eye contact, letting your teeth show in a smile, or raising your hand over his head.  

Talk to him in a quiet, friendly voice.  Perhaps when you have him on leash, try rubbing him forward of the tail or down on the chest.