Introducing Housekeeping Manager Marie Sturdy
Written by Jennifer Turner
Read more articlesAs Housekeeping Manager across both The Greenbank and our sister hotel, The Falmouth, Marie plays a vital role in creating the warm welcome and exceptional standards our guests enjoy from the moment they arrive.
Can you tell us a little about your role as Housekeeping Manager across The Greenbank and The Falmouth?
I oversee the housekeeping teams across both The Greenbank and The Falmouth, making sure our guests experience the highest standards from the moment they walk into their room. My role covers everything from planning staff rotas and managing stock levels to supporting and developing the teams, but my main priority is making sure everyone has what they need to deliver consistently excellent service every day.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No two days are ever the same, which is one of the things I love most about my job. Most days involve checking rooms in some capacity, whether it’s cleaning them after a guest has checked out, inspecting rooms cleaned by our housekeepers, or auditing them for maintenance issues and general wear and tear.
I also maintain detailed records relating to all aspects of the department, including lost property and linen usage. And, of course, every day involves dealing with the unexpected, which is almost guaranteed in hospitality! From room moves to last-minute bookings, it’s a very busy role, but seeing everything come together at the end of the day is incredibly rewarding.
Housekeeping is often described as the heart of a hotel. What does the department mean to you?
I couldn’t agree more! Housekeeping is often the unsung hero behind the scenes, but we’re responsible for creating an environment where guests can truly relax. A beautifully prepared room sets the tone for their entire stay. I’m incredibly proud of my teams because they work so hard, often without guests ever seeing the effort that goes into making everything look effortless.
What makes a room truly feel welcoming when a guest opens the door for the first time?
Attention to detail. Crisp linen, spotless surfaces and everything in its place, with those little finishing touches that show someone genuinely cares. Guests notice how a room makes them feel, even if they can’t always explain why. We want that first impression to be one of comfort, quality and, most importantly, wow!
What’s your favourite part of preparing a room for a guest’s arrival?
I love that final check before the room is ready. Standing back and knowing it’s perfect gives me a real sense of pride. I always imagine the guest opening the door, and I want them to feel immediately at home.
How do you inspire your team to maintain such high standards every day?
By leading by example. I would never ask my team to do something that I wouldn’t do myself. I believe in recognising hard work, offering support when it’s needed, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued. When people know they’re appreciated, they naturally want to give their best.
If you could give every guest one piece of advice to help them enjoy their stay, what would it be?
Slow down and enjoy Cornwall. Whether it’s sitting by the harbour with a coffee, taking a coastal walk or discovering somewhere new, don’t rush. We’re here to take care of the everyday tasks – you’re here to relax and enjoy everything we have to offer, so make the most of it.
If you could swap jobs with another department for a day, which would you choose and why?
I’d love to spend a day with our marketing team. I really enjoy photography and creating content, and I love finding ways to showcase things in their best light. Hospitality is full of beautiful moments and little details that guests don’t always get to see, so I think it would be fascinating to help tell those stories and capture what makes both hotels so special.
When you’re not at work, how do you enjoy spending your time in Cornwall?
Most of my free time is spent with my fiancé and our little daughter, Nola-May. We love getting out and exploring Cornwall together, whether that’s walking on one of our beautiful beaches, visiting one of the many attractions, or simply enjoying time together as a family. I also run my own small gifting business, so whenever I get a spare moment, I’m usually creating something new.
If you could describe The Greenbank and The Falmouth in three words each, what would they be?
The Greenbank: Welcoming. Relaxing. Home.
The Falmouth: Majestic. Timeless. Nostalgic.
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