Lead cleaning excellence

The Head of Housekeeping and Cleaning Excellence is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all housekeeping and sanitation operations across a large corporate campus. This role involves managing a substantial team, ensuring impeccable standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and organization throughout a high-traffic office environment that includes thousands of workstations, common areas, and specialized facilities. The ideal candidate will be a strategic and experienced leader with a deep understanding of modern cleaning technologies, environmental health and safety (EHS) regulations, and team management.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning and Management

• Develop and execute a comprehensive, data-driven strategy for housekeeping services that aligns with overall corporate objectives.
• Establish performance metrics (KPIs) to measure and continuously improve cleaning quality, efficiency, and employee satisfaction.
• Oversee the budget for the housekeeping department, including labor costs, equipment procurement, and supply management.
• Forecast and manage capital expenditures (CAPEX) for cleaning equipment and operational expenditures (OPEX) for consumables.

Operational Excellence and Quality Assurance

• Implement and enforce standardized cleaning protocols, procedures, and quality standards for all workstations, meeting rooms, common areas, restrooms, and pantries.
• Conduct regular, documented inspections and audits of all facilities to ensure compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements.
• Leverage technology, such as smart cleaning solutions and inventory management systems, to optimize workflows and track service delivery.
• Address and resolve any cleaning-related issues, complaints, or feedback from employees and management promptly and professionally.

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead and manage a large team of housekeeping staff, supervisors, and vendors, fostering a culture of accountability and high performance.
• Develop and deliver robust training programs covering best practices, safety protocols, use of chemicals (COSHH), and customer service.
• Create and manage work schedules, assign tasks, and monitor team performance to ensure optimal coverage and productivity.
• Handle all aspects of HR, including recruitment, hiring, performance reviews, and professional development.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all local, state, and federal health and safety regulations related to commercial facilities.
• Implement infection prevention and control measures, especially for high-touch surfaces, to maintain a healthy and safe work environment.
• Regularly review and update safety procedures, risk assessments, and cleaning protocols to mitigate potential hazards.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to cleaning schedules, inspections, and safety compliance.

Stakeholder and Vendor Management

• Manage relationships with external service providers for specialized cleaning services, waste management, and pest control.
• Collaborate with other departments, including Facilities, IT, and HR, to coordinate cleaning activities and support company events.
• Promote good hygiene practices among all employees through awareness campaigns and providing necessary supplies.

Qualifications and Skills

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Facility Management, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in housekeeping or facility management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing a large corporate environment.
• Proven experience managing budgets, vendors, and large, diverse teams.
• Strong knowledge of commercial cleaning techniques, equipment, chemicals, and industry best practices.
• Expertise in health, safety, and sanitation regulations and compliance.

Desired Skills

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in facility management software and other relevant technology.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage competing priorities.