We are seeking a highly experienced, polished, and exceptionally organised Head Housekeeper to oversee the daily housekeeping operations of a high-end private household in Central London. This is a hands-on leadership position, responsible for upholding impeccable standards, guiding and developing the housekeeping team, and ensuring the seamless day-to-day running of the residence(s).
Housekeeping Leadership & Standards
- Establish and maintain five-star standards across all areas of the property/properties, including presentation, cleanliness, organisation, and the careful handling of fine finishes and valuables
- Develop and manage daily and weekly schedules, task lists, and rotas to ensure consistent coverage and exceptional standards
- Lead from the front, adopting a hands-on approach whenever required
Team Management
- Recruit (where applicable), manage, train, mentor, and appraise the housekeeping team, including casual or seasonal staff as needed
- Conduct structured inductions and ongoing training to ensure all SOPs are adhered to, including laundry care, bed presentation, service standards, and turndown where required
- Provide clear direction and constructive feedback, fostering a calm, professional, and motivated team culture
Household Operations & Coordination
- Liaise closely with principals, PAs, Estate/House Managers, and other household departments (chefs, security, drivers, gardeners, maintenance) to ensure smooth coordination
- Oversee preparations for guests and events, including deep cleaning, room setups, floral refreshes, and last-minute requests
- Manage inventories of housekeeping supplies, linens, amenities, and consumables; place orders and oversee budgets where applicable
Laundry & Wardrobe Oversight
- Supervise high-quality laundry processes, including the care of delicates and couture, ironing, steaming, and stain treatment, ensuring best practice and correct interpretation of care labels
- Manage linen rotation and specialist item care, coordinating external dry cleaning or specialist services when required
Care & Maintenance of the Home
- Identify and report maintenance issues promptly, tracking progress with contractors and maintenance teams
- Ensure the household operates safely, discreetly, and with absolute confidentiality
- Maintain organised systems across cupboards, storage areas, cleaning equipment, and back-of-house housekeeping spaces
Candidate Profile
Essential
- Proven experience as a Head Housekeeper or Senior Housekeeper within UHNW private households or five-star luxury hospitality environments
- Strong leadership capability with a calm, professional, and proactive management style
- Exceptional attention to detail and confidence working with fine finishes and delicate or valuable items
- Discreet, trustworthy, and comfortable working in close proximity to principals and guests
- Highly organised, efficient, and capable of prioritising within a dynamic environment
- Excellent spoken English and strong communication skills
Desirable
- Experience managing multiple properties or large-scale residences
- Confident overseeing inventories, budgets, and basic housekeeping administrative systems
- Additional expertise in wardrobe or specialist laundry care (couture and delicates)
Schedule: 5 days per week (flexible). As a senior appointment, the successful candidate will work the hours necessary to fulfil the role effectively, including occasional evenings and weekends as required.
Salary: £65,000–£80,000 (dependent on experience)
Benefits: 3% employer pension contribution (following successful completion of 3-month probation), 23 days’ annual leave plus 8 public holidays, discretionary bonus potential
REF: S&W#3544416
