Chief Housekeeper

About the role

The Chief Housekeeper leads the housekeeping department on a cruise vessel, overseeing the delivery of premium butler and cleaning services in guest suites, public areas and back‑of‑house. This senior position combines operational management, direct guest interaction and strict compliance with public health standards to ensure total guest satisfaction.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and supervise the entire housekeeping operation, ensuring high‑quality service across all ship areas.
• Conduct regular walkthroughs of the vessel to verify standards and promptly address any issues.
• Interact proactively with guests to identify expectations, respond to requests and resolve complaints immediately.
• Coordinate with other ship departments, maintaining effective people‑management practices.
• Monitor guest satisfaction through comment cards and rating scores, taking corrective actions as needed.
• Oversee VIP and suite preparations at embarkation, performing random checks on all accommodations.
• Maintain and display an equitable in‑port manning schedule for the housekeeping team.
• Handle confidential information with discretion and keep accurate employee records.
• Induct, train, coach and lead crew members to consistently achieve superior performance.
• Prepare cruise reports, manage complaint logs, control operational costs and suggest service improvements.
• Ensure compliance with public health requirements, company standards and procedures.
• Liaise with HR on personnel matters, staffing plans and training needs.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in housekeeping management, preferably in hospitality or cruise environments.
• Strong leadership and people‑management skills with a focus on teamwork.
• Excellent guest‑service orientation and ability to handle high‑pressure situations.
• High level of integrity, confidentiality and attention to detail.
• Proven ability to monitor and improve guest satisfaction metrics.
• Effective communication skills for interaction with guests, crew and senior management.

Required skills