Housekeeping Team Leader (Cape Town) at Sun International

Job Purpose

• The Housekeeping Team Leader is responsible for supervising daily housekeeping operations, ensuring cleanliness and presentation standards in guest rooms, public areas, kitchens, and back-of-house areas, supporting the property in achieving service excellence, operational efficiency, and compliance with hygiene and safety standards, while motivating the team to deliver consistently high levels of guest satisfaction.

Key Performance Areas

• Allocate duties and supervise shift schedules based on business occupancy
• Conduct shift briefings, handovers, and daily operational walkabouts
• Monitor cleaning activities and ensure SOPs, hygiene, and safety protocols are followed
• Step in to perform housekeeping tasks as needed during high-demand or low-staff periods
• Be present on the floor to assist guests, resolve complaints, and manage special requests
• Oversee execution of personalised services (e.g. turndowns, VIP amenities)
• Promote a courteous and professional environment that supports brand loyalty
• Supervise attendance, grooming, performance, and conduct of housekeeping staff
• Provide on-the-job coaching and training on standards, promotions, and protocols
• Support onboarding of new staff and contribute to team motivation and communication
• Conduct inspections of rooms and public areas to ensure quality and presentation standards
• Monitor and report maintenance, pest control, and hygiene issues
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental compliance across all housekeeping zones
• Monitor usage and stock levels of linen, amenities, uniforms, and supplies
• Requisition supplies when needed and manage distribution
• Ensure correct handling and maintenance of cleaning equipment
• Support inventory counts and report discrepancies or damaged stock
• Provide updates to management on floor conditions, guest issues, and team performance
• Complete daily shift reports and communicate guest preferences and VIP requirements
• Relay updates and operational instructions to team members effectively
• Report maintenance defects and issues to appropriate department.
• Encourage teamwork, motivation and professionalism.
• Coordinate with Front Office and other departments to meet guests’ expectations
• Maintain cleaning records and inspection reports
• Update room status and report to the Front Desk
• Enforce proper use of chemicals and cleaning equipment
• Ensure all team members follow H&S protocols and procedures. 

Requirements

Education

• Grade 12 
• Advanced certificate in hospitality  

Experience

• 5 years’ experience in a housekeeping role, inclusive of 2 years in a supervisory/team lead role

Work conditions and special requirements

• Ability to work shifts that meet operational requirements (including public holidays, night work and weekends)
• Physically able to move operating equipment and furniture to perform housekeeping activities