Executive Housekeeper

About the role

The Executive Housekeeper is a senior member of the shipboard management team, responsible for overseeing all housekeeping operations on a Royal Caribbean cruise vessel. Reporting to the Hotel Director, this role ensures that guest areas, crew spaces and laundry services meet the brand’s high standards of cleanliness and presentation.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain cleanliness, maintenance and presentation standards across guest staterooms, balconies, corridors, officer cabins, laundry, lockers and storage areas.
• Lead, motivate and coach a diverse housekeeping team, handling guest feedback and requests efficiently.
• Develop and deliver classroom‑style and on‑the‑job training, supporting succession planning.
• Coordinate the division schedule with shoreside support and monitor staffing needs.
• Oversee laundry operations, ensuring the Laundry Master has the tools, training and support required.
• Manage yearly budgets for housekeeping and laundry cost centres, including consumables and revenue streams such as floral cart and tuxedo program.
• Drive performance against guest satisfaction scores, quality reviews, health inspections and operational audits.
• Stay informed of ship events and special functions to provide accurate information to guests and staff.
• Ensure cleaning equipment and supplies are maintained and that staff are trained in proper use.
• Facilitate departmental meetings, handover notes and other communication to guarantee smooth operations.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in housekeeping management, preferably on cruise ships or large hotels.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor and develop large teams.
• Strong knowledge of brand cleanliness standards and public health regulations.
• Excellent organizational and budgeting skills.
• Effective communication and training abilities.

Required skills

• Cleaning equipment operation