Executive Housekeeper

SUMMARY:
Our client in the Hospitality Industry is seeking an Executive Housekeeper to join their well established hotel in Graaff Reinet

POSITION INFO:
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS: 

• Diploma in Hotel Management or Housekeeping Operations
• Minimum 3–5 years of housekeeping leadership experience in a luxury hospitality environment
• Strong knowledge of cleaning products, laundry operations, and hygiene protocols
• Competent in the use of Microsoft Office and housekeeping management systems
• Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in written and spoken English; a second official language is an advantage

• Leadership and team development
• Process and service excellence
• Attention to detail and quality control
• Innovation and continuous improvement
• Resilience and adaptability
• Cross-departmental collaboration Problem-solving and decision-making

• Develop, implement, and monitor housekeeping policies, SOPs, and cleanliness standards across all areas.
• Supervise daily operations including guest rooms, public areas, laundry, and back-of-house spaces.
• Plan and manage departmental rosters to ensure optimal staffing coverage and service delivery.
• Collaborate with maintenance to report and follow up on room defects or public area repairs.
• Ensure high levels of hygiene and cleanliness are maintained in compliance with health and safety legislation.

• Develop and execute the annual housekeeping operations plan aligned with hotel objectives.
• Oversee inventory control of linen, cleaning supplies, and guest amenities.
• Work with procurement to source and maintain high-quality, cost-effective housekeeping products.
• Ensure proper key control systems are in place to support safety and security protocols.
• Coordinate regular quality checks and cleaning audits across all hotel areas.

• Ensure all guest rooms and public areas meet luxury standards before guest arrival.
• Facilitate efficient handling of guest requests, preferences, and complaints related to housekeeping services.
• Deliver consistent, personalised service with attention to detail that enhances the guest experience.
• Implement immediate response systems for guest feedback and service recovery where needed.

• Lead by example, setting a tone of professionalism, courtesy, and excellence within the team.
• Conduct training and development programmes to maintain high service standards.
• Monitor performance and conduct regular reviews with clear development objectives.
• Ensure all team members understand and comply with grooming, uniform, and behaviour standards.
• Identify training needs and coordinate drills or refresher courses to maintain departmental competence.

• Uphold and enforce hygiene, cleanliness, and presentation standards in all guest and service areas.
• Monitor implementation of cleaning protocols and take corrective action when necessary.
• Support ongoing improvement of housekeeping service through quality audits and guest feedback.
• Ensure chemical and equipment safety protocols are followed correctly by all team members.

• Prepare and manage the housekeeping department budget including labour, linen, and supplies.
• Monitor and reduce departmental wastage, including chemical usage and linen replacement.
• Identify cost-saving initiatives such as linen recycling, repair programs, and efficient procurement practices.
• Track inventory and stock consumption, reporting variances to management.

• Maintain the condition of all housekeeping equipment, tools, and storerooms.
• Coordinate with maintenance for the upkeep of furnishings, flooring, fixtures, and décor.
• Oversee care for spaces in a way that prolongs the life of property assets and supports brand standards.

• Ensure compliance with workplace safety, health regulations, and chemical usage protocols.
• Ensure all team members are trained in health and safety standards and food-safe cleaning techniques.
• Monitor and enforce proper key control, access, and security for guest areas and stores.
• Maintain accurate records of safety training, incidents, and inspections as per regulations.

• Work collaboratively with all departments to ensure seamless guest service and cleanliness.
• Act as Manager on Duty when required.
• Perform any other duties as reasonably assigned by hotel management.

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and public holidays
• Physically fit and capable of standing or walking for extended periods
• High sensitivity to visual, auditory, smell, and touch cues related to cleanliness and comfort
• Emotionally resilient and able to remain calm and professional under pressure
• Professional grooming and appearance in line with hotel standards