Director of Housekeeping

[Hotel Descriptor]

Job Summary:

The Director of Housekeeping is responsible for overseeing the entire housekeeping department, ensuring that all guest rooms, public areas, and back-of-house spaces are maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and organization. This role involves leadership, training, and management of housekeeping staff, while also collaborating with other departments to ensure the overall guest experience is exceptional. The Director of Housekeeping will manage departmental budgets, maintain inventory, and ensure that the team adheres to company policies, procedures, and safety standards. A focus on guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and cost control is key in this role.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Guest Experience Strategy & Leadership:
• Lead, motivate, and manage the housekeeping team, including Housekeepers, Supervisors, and support staff, ensuring high levels of performance and job satisfaction.
• Develop and implement training programs to ensure all team members understand and adhere to cleanliness standards, safety protocols, and service expectations.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and assist in the professional development of team members.
• Schedule and supervise shifts to ensure the department is adequately staffed during peak and off-peak periods, maintaining operational efficiency.
• Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, respect, and professionalism.
• Operational Oversight:
• Oversee the daily operations of the housekeeping department, ensuring rooms and public areas meet cleanliness and service standards.
• Manage room cleaning schedules, ensuring that all rooms are cleaned in a timely manner and that guest requests (e.g., extra linens, special accommodations) are met promptly.
• Coordinate with Front Desk, Maintenance, and other departments to ensure room readiness and address any guest concerns or maintenance issues.
• Conduct regular inspections of rooms and public areas to ensure cleanliness standards are maintained.
• Ensure proper procedures are followed for the cleaning, sanitizing, and restocking of guest rooms, bathrooms, hallways, and other public spaces.
• Quality Control & Guest Satisfaction:
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization, ensuring that all hotel areas are presentable, sanitary, and in top condition at all times.
• Respond to guest feedback regarding cleanliness and maintenance issues, addressing concerns promptly and ensuring resolution.
• Develop and implement systems for tracking guest feedback related to cleanliness, ensuring that improvements are made as necessary.
• Proactively address and resolve any cleanliness-related guest complaints or special requests, working closely with the Front Desk and Guest Services teams.
• Budgeting & Cost Control:
• Develop and manage the housekeeping department’s budget, ensuring that expenses such as supplies, equipment, and labor are within budget.
• Track and control inventory levels for cleaning supplies, linens, and other necessary items, ensuring that the hotel operates efficiently without excess waste.
• Implement strategies for reducing costs and improving operational efficiency, while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and guest satisfaction.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers and vendors, managing purchasing and ensuring cost-effective yet quality supplies.
• Health, Safety & Compliance:
• Ensure that all housekeeping staff adhere to safety protocols, including proper use of chemicals, equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ensure the department complies with all hotel policies, procedures, and legal regulations related to health, safety, and cleanliness.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized storage area for housekeeping supplies and equipment.
• Regularly review and update the department’s safety and cleaning protocols to align with the latest industry standards and local regulations.
• Inventory Management:
• Oversee the inventory of linens, cleaning supplies, and equipment, ensuring that stocks are maintained at appropriate levels.
• Ensure that linen and equipment are inspected regularly and replaced or repaired as necessary.
• Coordinate the laundering of hotel linens, towels, and uniforms, ensuring proper inventory management and high-quality standards.
• Staffing & Scheduling:
• Create efficient staffing schedules to ensure adequate coverage for daily operations, taking into account guest occupancy levels, seasonal demand, and budget constraints.
• Ensure that staff is cross-trained in various areas of the department to provide flexibility in staffing and coverage.
• Conduct regular staff meetings to communicate expectations, updates, and departmental goals.
• Collaborative Cross-Departmental Communication:
• Work closely with the Front Desk and Maintenance teams to ensure seamless communication regarding room availability, guest preferences, and maintenance issues.
• Coordinate with the Food & Beverage team to ensure that all public spaces are cleaned and maintained during peak periods and events.
• Collaborate with the Human Resources department for recruitment, onboarding, and employee performance management.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a housekeeping or facilities management role, with at least 2–3 years in a leadership or managerial position.
• Previous experience in a hotel or large property is preferred, with a strong focus on cleanliness and guest service.
• Experience with hotel management software and property management systems (PMS) is a plus.

Skills/Specialized Knowledge

• Excellent leadership, coaching, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to lead and motivate a team of diverse staff.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and delegate effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of cleaning protocols, guest service standards, and safety regulations.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact effectively with guests, staff, and other departments.
• Ability to work well under pressure and handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Understanding of budgeting, cost control, and inventory management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other basic office software. Familiarity with property management and housekeeping management software is a plus.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 pounds as needed (e.g., carrying linens, equipment, or supplies).
• Ability to work in various areas of the hotel, including guest rooms, public spaces, and back-of-house areas.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and evening shifts, depending on hotel needs.

Company Overview

Proper Hospitality is made up of a diverse group of passionate individuals who share a common love for hotels and the art of hospitality. Our philosophy is simple: There is a right way to do things and anything less just isn't proper. We are seeking out the best of the best from inside and outside of the industry to work alongside us as we grow a new kind of lifestyle Hospitality Company inspired by a centuries-old tradition. The work is challenging and fast-paced but rewarding above all.

Proper Hospitality provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.

Proper Hospitality will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.