Assistant Housekeeper at British High Commission Nairobi

Main Purpose:

The overall purpose of the role is to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness, hygiene, organization, and presentation throughout the official residence

The assistant housekeeper will work alongside the housekeeper to maintain the residence as both a comfortable private home and a prestigious venue for official diplomatic, social, and representational events. 

Roles and responsibilities:

Daily Maintenance and Hygiene 

• General Cleaning: Conducting thorough cleaning, including vacuuming, mopping, dusting, and sanitizing all rooms, bathrooms, and public areas.
• Specialized Care: Cleaning and protecting delicate items, antique furniture, fine fabrics, silver, and crystal.
• Waste Management: Ensuring proper disposal of waste and recycling. 

Linen and Laundry Management

• Laundry Services: Washing, ironing, and steaming household linens (sheets, towels, tablecloths) and sometimes personal items.
• Wardrobe Care: Maintaining the neatness of household and official wardrobes.
• Stock Rotation: Managing the inventory of linen and ensuring adequate supplies are available. 

 Operational and Administrative Support

• Inventory Management: Ordering, monitoring, and maintaining stock of cleaning supplies, consumables, and household essentials.
• Maintenance Reporting: Proactively identifying and reporting repairs, electrical faults, or plumbing issues to the High Commission administrative staff.
• Security Awareness: Maintaining strict confidentiality, ensuring security protocols are followed, and managing access for contractors that service laundry equipment. 

 Aesthetic Upkeep

• Floral and Décor: Preparing fresh floral arrangements and maintaining indoor plants to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the residence.
• Presentation: Ensuring all public and private areas meet the high-standard representation required for a diplomatic mission. 

Essential qualifications, skills and experience  

• Proven experience in housekeeping and laundry services, knowledge of fabric care, stain removal, and garment handling techniques.
• Experience of working in hospitality/catering preferably in a private residence or luxury hospitality setting.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or during official events as required.
• Discretion and Integrity: High level of trustworthiness, as the role involves access to private and secure areas.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to cleaning and presentation. 

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience  

• Basic use of the PC and Microsoft System.
• The jobholder must work in accordance with Health & Safety regulations, using equipment and cleaning products in accordance with instructions given.
• Food & beverage service