Estate Housekeeping Manager

An experienced, professional, and hands-on Estate Housekeeping Manager is required to oversee all aspects of housekeeping across a private residence, guest cottages, and associated estate accommodations. This is a senior leadership role that requires discretion, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to maintain the highest international standards of cleanliness, presentation, and service.

The estate is a seasonal private residence for a family with teenage children and high-profile guests, with peak activity during the summer months and quieter winter periods. The ideal candidate will have previous experience in luxury environments such as private estates, yachts, or 5-star hospitality. The role is suited to an organised, detail-driven individual who is physically fit and confident managing a capable team. Exact hours of work vary according to peak and off-peak seasons. R35 000 per month negotiable. Ideal start date 1 September 2025. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise and coordinate daily housekeeping operations across the estate (main residence and guest cottages)
  

• Provide hands-on support with cleaning and laundry as required
  

• Manage and train a team of 4 housekeeping/laundry staff
  

• Develop and maintain detailed housekeeping schedules and checklists
  

• Oversee household laundry operations, including care of fine fabrics, wardrobe organisation, and linen maintenance
  

• Handle inventory management and ordering of housekeeping supplies
  

• Collaborate with other estate departments (e.g., kitchen, maintenance, grounds) to ensure seamless service delivery
  

• Maintain the security and care of valuable household items, antiques, and furnishings
  

• Prepare accommodations for high-end guests and seasonal visits, ensuring every detail is guest-ready
  

• Manage seasonal deep cleans and readiness for special events
  

• Coordinate staff leave, shift rotations, and holiday coverage
  

Work Schedule & Leave:

• Full-time position with flexibility required, particularly during peak periods
  

• Two consecutive days off per week (subject to seasonal adjustment)
  

• Standard annual leave, with limited leave during October to April, which is the estate’s high season
  

• Winter months used for leave, deep cleaning, and estate readiness projects
  

Compensation & Benefits:

• Uniform provided
  

• Professional development opportunities may be considered (e.g., training or certifications)
  

• Professional, respectful, and team-oriented environment
  

• Strong emphasis on discretion, confidentiality, and luxury service standards
  

• The ideal candidate will be calm under pressure, adaptable, self-motivated, detail-driven, and collaborative
  

• Long-term growth potential within an expanding private estate

Special Considerations:

• High Season: October to April (increased hours and guest activity)
  

• Low Season: May to September (reduced pace, deep cleans, training, and maintenance)
  

• The estate occasionally hosts private functions, requiring flexibility in scheduling
  

• The Housekeeping Manager will manage a budget for supplies and may request additional training or equipment as needed
  

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior housekeeping role, preferably within a private estate, luxury hospitality, or yachting environment
  

• Proven leadership and team management experience
  

• High attention to detail, efficiency, and personal presentation
  

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  

• Physically fit and comfortable with a hands-on role
  

• Discreet, trustworthy, and capable of handling confidential information
  

• Fluent in English; additional languages an advantage