Executive Housekeeper (EHK) Job Description

Executive Housekeeper (EHK): Role, Responsibilities, and Qualifications

An Executive Housekeeper (EHK) is responsible for managing and supervising the housekeeping staff in a hotel, resort, or other establishment. This role involves a wide range of responsibilities, including hiring and training new staff members, developing cleaning schedules, and ensuring that all rooms and public spaces remain clean and orderly.

In addition to managing the housekeeping staff, the EHK is also responsible for coordinating with other departments to ensure guest needs are met. This might involve working with the front desk to fulfill guest requests in a timely manner or with the maintenance team to ensure any issues in guest rooms or public areas are handled quickly.

To be successful as an Executive Housekeeper, candidates must have strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a sharp eye for detail. They must also have a deep understanding of cleaning and sanitation practices, as well as the ability to develop and implement effective cleaning protocols. This role is essential to the hospitality industry, as it helps ensure that guests have a clean and comfortable stay.

Duties and Responsibilities

The EHK oversees all housekeeping employees, with the authority to hire, release, and take disciplinary action. They are responsible for the cleanliness, order, and appearance of the entire hotel.

Staff Management and Training

Oversee all housekeeping employees, including hiring new employees as needed and taking disciplinary action when policies are not followed.
Evaluate employees for promotions when openings appear.
Recruit and train new employees, assigning them to work with experienced assistants for on-the-job training.
Manage on-the-job training and evaluate its effectiveness.
Plan work for the housekeeping department, distributing regular and special assignments.
Schedule employees and grant leave in accordance with occupancy estimates.
Maintain timekeeping records for all employees in the department.

Operations and Quality Control

Ensure rooms are made according to company standards.
Conduct daily inspections of public areas and employee locker rooms.
Hold daily supervisory briefings.
Develop and implement housekeeping systems and procedures.
Coordinate room and public area preventive maintenance schedules with the engineering department.
Give special attention when managing pest eradication activities.
Plan, control, and supervise horticultural activities.

Guest Relations

Attend to and resolve guest complaints.
Immediately attend to guest requests.

Administrative and Financial Duties

- Prepare the annual housekeeping department budget.
- Maintain stock of guest supplies, cleaning supplies, linen, and uniforms.
- Approve all supply requests, such as for linens and bath mats.
- Reconcile inventory with accounts and general stores for linen, uniforms, and other assets.
- Verify consignment supplies.
- Maintain the lost and found department, take responsibility for all items, and determine legitimate owners.

Prepare reports for management information.

Assist the purchasing department in selecting suppliers for housekeeping-related goods.

Position Details and Prerequisites

Job Title: Executive Housekeeper

Reports to: General Manager / Resident Manager

Prerequisites

Strong leadership abilities and organizational skills, an entrepreneurial mindset, and the ability to think “outside the box.” Must be able to encourage change and seek operational efficiency.

Education

A three-year degree or diploma in hotel management.

Experience

A minimum of 8 to 10 years of experience, with at least 2 to 3 years in the same role. Strong operational/technical knowledge is required. Successful pre-opening experience is an advantage.

Sample Interview Questions

Interviewing for an EHK position requires assessing managerial skills, industry knowledge, and interpersonal abilities.

Managerial and Leadership Skills:
- Can you describe your experience in managing housekeeping staff and ensuring an efficient workflow?
- How do you prioritize duties and delegate responsibilities among your team?
- How do you handle performance evaluations and address performance problems?
Industry Knowledge:
- What housekeeping standards and regulations are you familiar with, and how do you ensure compliance?
- How do you stay updated on the latest trends and technology in housekeeping?
- Can you discuss any experience you have with sustainable and eco-friendly housekeeping practices?
Communication and Interpersonal Skills:
- How do you communicate expectations and standards to your housekeeping staff?
- Explain a situation where you had to resolve a conflict within your team. How did you handle it?
- How do you ensure effective communication between housekeeping and other departments?
Problem-Solving Ability:
- Can you give an example of a challenging situation you faced in a previous role and how you resolved it?
- How do you deal with unexpected issues, such as room damage or staff shortages?
- What strategies do you use to overcome guest complaints related to housekeeping?
Training and Development:
- How do you train new housekeeping staff to meet hotel standards?
- What methods do you use to ensure ongoing training and development for your team?

Salary for Executive Housekeeper

Salaries for Executive Housekeepers can vary based on factors such as the size and location of the hotel, the candidate’s experience, and overall economic conditions. In January 2024, the average salary for Executive Housekeepers in the United States ranged from $45,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on these factors.

It is important to research current industry standards and salary ranges in your specific location and sector to determine a competitive and fair salary. Websites such as Glassdoor, PayScale, and industry reports can provide valuable insights into salary expectations.