Head of Luxury Housekeeping

Headhunters; Graaff-Reinet; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Headhunters is seeking an experienced Head of Housekeeping to lead operations for a luxury hotel, ensuring impeccable guest rooms, public areas, and back-of-house cleanliness. You will develop policies, manage rosters, and drive service excellence aligned with safety standards.

The role requires a Diploma in Hotel Management or Housekeeping Operations with 3–5 years in leadership, strong hygiene knowledge, and fluent English.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Proficient in written and spoken English; a second official language is an advantage.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Skills

cleaning products knowledge

laundry operations knowledge

hygiene protocols

Microsoft Office

housekeeping systems

English proficiency

flexible schedule

physical fitness

sensory awareness

emotional resilience

professional grooming

Education

Diploma in Hotel Management or Housekeeping Operations

Tools

Microsoft Office

housekeeping management systems

Job description

Headhunters is seeking an experienced Head of Housekeeping to lead operations for a luxury hotel, ensuring impeccable guest rooms, public areas, and back-of-house cleanliness. You will develop policies, manage rosters, and drive service excellence aligned with safety standards.

The role requires a Diploma in Hotel Management or Housekeeping Operations with 3–5 years in leadership, strong hygiene knowledge, and fluent English.