Position Summary

The Head Housekeeper is responsible for the smooth and efficient operation of the entire Housekeeping Department according to the company rules and regulations. This includes the responsibility for the administrative function of all Housekeeping crew, and the general cleanliness of the ship.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Operational

• Oversee the smooth organization and operation of the housekeeping department.
• Ensure maintenance and cleanliness of all areas, including guest cabins, public areas, and crew spaces.
• Assist housekeeping team with guest cabin cleaning and service, including turndown service and embarkation setup.
• Welcome and greet guests professionally according to company standards.
• Monitor distribution of items to cabins and ensure proper storage practices.
• Create purchase orders and monitor delivery controls for supplies and equipment.
• Manage uniforms, delivery and returns, condition.
• Involve in onboarding of new housekeeping staff.
• Evaluate housekeeping team performance, providing feedback and performance action plans when required.
• Ensure the team is familiar with all docking locations and shore excursions.
• Review guest feedback and address housekeeping-related issues.
• Conduct regular training sessions with the housekeeping team.
• Manage all guest and crew laundry operations, including crew uniforms.
• Ensure correct handling of all equipment, machinery, and chemicals.
• Ensure the department fully understands designated safety roles, duties, and in-port manning responsibilities.

Training & Development

• Attend all meetings, training activities or classes related to assigned position as required.

Financial

• Strive to achieve cost, revenue, and guest satisfaction targets, implementing improvements as needed.
• Monitor slow-moving stock items and manage expiration control.
• Oversee monthly inventories, purchase orders, equipment, and delivery control.
• Follow up on pending maintenance or stock requests and ensure proper storage practices.
• Ensure correct handling of all equipment and machinery.

Safety Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe and sanitary environment for all guests and crew members.
• Always follow proper procedures and instructions to prevent damage of any kind of ship or company property.
• Know and comply with the European sanitation program and regulations pertaining to his/her working area.
• Participate in safety drills as required.
• Participate in safety training as required.
• Identify and report any potential safety hazards immediately.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with monthly inventories and other administrative tasks as instructed by supervisors.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth and efficient operations across the ship.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including luggage handling, loading, and garbage off-loading.
• As assigned and instructed by supervisor.

Qualifications

Knowledge, experience, skill, and/or ability

Required

Required

• Experience as a Head Housekeeper.
• Good command of spoken and written English.
• Knowledge of sanitary regulations and housekeeping standards.
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and KPI monitoring.
• Strong understanding of chemical cleaning products and their proper handling.
• Strong problem-solving skills and able to work effectively under pressure.
• Comfortable working in multicultural environments.

Preferred

• Knowledge of additional language, preferably German.