Executive Housekeeper

SUMMARY:
The Executive Housekeeper is responsible for managing all housekeeping operations within a luxury safari lodge, ensuring exceptional cleanliness, presentation, and guest comfort standards. The role oversees housekeeping staff, laundry operations, inventory management, and quality control while maintaining the high standards expected of a 5-star hospitality establishment.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Housekeeping Operations Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the housekeeping and laundry departments.
• Ensure all guest suites, public areas, staff accommodation, offices, and back-of-house areas are maintained to 5-star standards.
• Develop and implement housekeeping procedures, standards, and schedules.
• Conduct regular inspections of guest rooms and public areas to ensure quality and consistency.
• Coordinate room readiness with Front Office and Lodge Management.

• Recruit, train, supervise, and motivate housekeeping staff.
• Prepare staff schedules and duty rosters.
• Conduct performance evaluations and ongoing coaching.
• Ensure staff adhere to lodge policies, grooming standards, and health and safety regulations.
• Foster a positive and productive team culture.

• Ensure guest rooms are impeccably prepared prior to arrival.
• Handle guest requests, complaints, and special requirements professionally and efficiently.
• Work closely with other departments to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Monitor guest feedback and implement corrective actions where necessary.

• Oversee all laundry operations, including guest laundry services.
• Manage linen inventory and replacement programs.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and maintenance of linens, uniforms, and guest amenities.
• Monitor laundry quality and turnaround times.

• Manage housekeeping supplies, chemicals, amenities, and equipment.
• Conduct regular stock takes and inventory control.
• Monitor departmental budgets and expenses.
• Identify opportunities to reduce wastage and improve operational efficiency.
• Ensure adequate stock levels while maintaining cost controls.

• Ensure compliance with health, hygiene, and safety regulations.
• Implement and maintain cleaning protocols and sanitation standards.
• Ensure safe storage and use of cleaning chemicals.
• Maintain housekeeping equipment and report maintenance issues promptly.

• Prepare departmental reports and budgets.
• Maintain housekeeping records, inventories, and maintenance logs.
• Coordinate with the Maintenance Department regarding repairs and preventative maintenance requirements.
• Participate in management meetings and operational planning.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Qualifications Grade 12 (Matric). Diploma or Certificate in Hospitality Management, Hotel Management, Housekeeping Management, or a related field. Additional housekeeping or supervisory training is advantageous. Valid driver's licence preferred. Experience Required Minimum 3-5 years' experience in housekeeping within a luxury lodge, hotel, or resort environment. At least 2 years' experience in a supervisory or management role. Previous experience in a 4-star or 5-star safari lodge environment is highly advantageous. Experience managing large housekeeping teams and laundry operations. Key Skills and Competencies Strong leadership and people management skills. Excellent attention to detail and quality standards. Exceptional organizational and time-management abilities. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities. Financial acumen and inventory management skills. High level of professionalism and guest service orientation. Knowledge of housekeeping chemicals, cleaning procedures, and hygiene standards. Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and hospitality management systems. Benefits: Accommodation on site Meals on Duty Medical aid contribution should the candidate decide to join the company medical aid Provident fund contributions 3 Weeks on, 1 week off. 15 Annual leave days