Executive Housekeeper
Executive Housekeeper | Johannesburg | Permanent
Lead the housekeeping operation of a high-standard hospitality environment where cleanliness, guest experience and operational excellence are non-negotiable. This is an opportunity for an experienced housekeeping leader to set the standard, develop a high-performing team and ensure every area of the property consistently meets the required quality and hygiene expectations.
The Executive Housekeeper will take ownership of housekeeping standards, procedures, staffing, training, scheduling, performance management and daily operational execution. Reporting to the Operations Manager, the role will oversee the housekeeping function and Contract Managers while ensuring cleaning services, laundry operations and guest room standards are delivered in line with service level agreements and the property's requirements.
The successful candidate will combine strong operational discipline with commercial awareness, people leadership and a genuine commitment to continuous improvement. From managing budgets and CAPEX requirements to responding to guest feedback, identifying maintenance needs and introducing more efficient cleaning practices, this role requires a leader who can balance attention to detail with the broader operational needs of a busy hospitality environment.
Our client operates within the hospitality sector and places a strong emphasis on service excellence, operational standards and consistent guest experiences. The organisation is looking for a hands-on and credible housekeeping leader who can work collaboratively across departments while maintaining accountability for cleanliness, hygiene, team performance and service delivery.
What You'll Do
Lead the housekeeping function and set clear performance standards for the team
Establish, review, update and implement housekeeping Standard Operating Procedures and policies
Ensure housekeeping practices remain aligned with current operational requirements and industry standards
Develop new standards and procedures where required to improve service delivery and efficiency
Ensure compliance with the property's cleaning, hygiene, quality, health, safety and environmental requirements
Plan and monitor annual operational and CAPEX budgets relating to housekeeping, cleaning and laundry services
Oversee requirements relating to hotel linens, mattresses and term contracts
Support other departments where housekeeping expertise or operational assistance is required
Recruit, train, schedule and evaluate housekeeping team members
Manage and develop Contract Managers and the wider housekeeping team
Establish and interpret KPIs to monitor operational and financial performance
Consider the financial implications of operational decisions and recommendations
Conduct daily inspections of building cleanliness and housekeeping standards
Monitor the condition and maintenance of housekeeping equipment
Identify and report repair, maintenance and improvement requirements
Develop housekeeping maintenance and operational work plans
Schedule routine cleaning activities across common areas, guest rooms and specified outlets
Prepare housekeeping checklists and training schedules
Plan and coordinate ad hoc cleaning activities, including carpet shampooing, car park cleaning, fumigation and furnishing care
Respond professionally and effectively to client and guest complaints and feedback relating to housekeeping and guest rooms
Develop practical solutions to service concerns and ensure appropriate follow-through
Identify opportunities to improve cleaning methods, productivity and operational efficiency
Encourage innovation and creative thinking within the housekeeping team
Consider environmental impact, people, productivity and business requirements when implementing new approaches
Perform additional Head of Department responsibilities as required
What You Bring
Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Hotel Operations or a related field
Matric or National Senior Certificate
Minimum 5 years' relevant housekeeping experience at management level
Strong experience leading and managing housekeeping teams in a hotel or comparable hospitality environment
Strong people management and leadership capability
Experience with housekeeping SOPs, policies and operational standards
Experience managing cleaning, laundry and housekeeping operations
Experience with operational budgets and CAPEX planning would be advantageous
Strong understanding of housekeeping KPIs and performance management
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook
Experience with hotel operational systems would be advantageous
HASA membership would be advantageous
Strong planning, organisational and analytical skills
Excellent attention to detail and high standards of cleanliness
Strong customer and client service orientation
Good written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage pressure and remain composed in a fast-paced environment
A practical, proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement
What Success Looks Like
Housekeeping standards consistently meet or exceed agreed service level requirements
Guest rooms, common areas and specified outlets maintain a consistently high standard of cleanliness and hygiene
Housekeeping SOPs and policies are current, practical and consistently implemented
The housekeeping team is well trained, effectively scheduled and held accountable for performance
Contract Managers and team members receive effective leadership, guidance and development
Operational and CAPEX budgets are carefully planned and managed
Housekeeping KPIs are monitored and used to drive performance and operational improvements
Guest and client complaints are addressed promptly with practical and lasting solutions
Cleaning equipment and facilities are regularly inspected and maintenance requirements are escalated appropriately
Routine and ad hoc cleaning schedules are completed efficiently and to the required standard
The housekeeping function operates with strong productivity, cost awareness and operational discipline
New ideas and improved cleaning methods contribute to greater efficiency and service quality
Quality, health, safety and environmental requirements are consistently maintained