Chief Housekeeper for Azamara Cruises in London

V.Ships Leisure is looking for Chief Housekeeper on behalf of Azamara Cruises. Directs all Housekeeping functions for all guest public areas throughout the vessel, and associated activities by performing the duties described below.

Key Responsibilities

• Directs, coaches, supports, supervises, and evaluates (in conjunction with the Hotel Director) the performance of all direct reports.
• Directs the overall housekeeping function onboard the vessel.
• Oversees the assignment of duties and responsibilities for the Assistant Chief Housekeepers.
• Observes and evaluates staff and work procedures to ensure quality standards and service are met.
• Responsible for cleaning and maintaining all the Crew areas.
• Responsible for keeping overtime within the allotted budget amount and will be responsible for any overtime needs.
• Responsible for consumable and replaceable items.
• Reviews outside audit findings and performs regular self-audits.
• Monitors United States Public Health (USPH) and Outbreak Prevention Plan (OPP) procedures for sanitation and cleanliness.
• Investigates and resolves housekeeping quality and service complaints in a timely fashion.
• Attends meetings, training activities, courses and all other work-related activities as required.
• Ensures that all housekeeping equipment is maintained and inventoried on a monthly basis.
• Reports equipment shortage or equipment that needs to be serviced to shipboard and shoreside management.
• Responsible for ensuring proper documentation is done on any disciplinary action for Housekeeping Staff.
• Responsible for coaching and training staff on housekeeping standards.
• Oversees Main Laundry Operation.
• Will be required to meet the housekeeping appearance/cleanliness and service scores set forth by the company.
• Performs related duties as required.
• Responsible for effectively managing the time and attendance of their own direct reports’ and entire division’s work and rest hours in accord with MLC regulations and company procedures.
• Reviews financial transactions/monthly financial statement and manages staff to ensure expenditures stay within budget limitations.
• Maintains cleaning cost at reasonable levels without affecting quality and standards.
• Conducts workstation spot checks to ensure items are correctly stored and utilized to minimize deterioration and waste.
• Manages the financial budget for the assigned area, including the successful identification of expense reduction through cost control.
• Records production and operational data on specified forms.
• Analyzes operational problems and establishes controls.
• Prepares a variety of reports and letters utilizing personal computer system and equipment.
• Meets with subordinate supervisors and staff to review the requirements of the day’s housekeeping schedule.
• Monitors and manages the various assigned workstation functions.
• Inspects workstations, work areas, equipment, etc. to ensure efficient service and conformance to standards.
• Mentors, develops, and provides on-the-job training to subordinates.

Education/Experience/Qualifications:

• Five to seven years housekeeping managerial experience in an upscale hotel, resort or cruise line (shipboard experience preferred).
• Diploma or Degree in Hotel management for 1 to 3 years required.
• Extensive knowledge of cleaning procedures regarding public health standards.
• Strong management skills in a multicultural and dynamic environment.
• Strong communication, problem solving, decision making, and interpersonal skills.
• Superior customer service, team building and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work positively and cooperatively in a diverse team environment.
• Demonstrated aptitude for the financial aspects of a housekeeping operation.
• Knowledge of policies and practices involved in the human resources function.
• Working knowledge of computers, internet access, and the ability to navigate within a variety software packages.
• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, business administration or related field from an accredited college or university or the international equivalent preferred.
• Ability to attend and complete onboard USPH training.
• Completion of two contracts as Assistant Chief Housekeeper with a performance rating of Proficient or above.
• No disciplinary action on file for the last 12 months.
• Ability to speak English clearly, distinctly, and cordially with guests.
• Ability to read and write English to understand and interpret written procedures.
• Ability to speak additional languages such as Spanish, French, or German is preferred.