Hamilton Island is seeking a visionary Executive Chef to lead the culinary vision for our Events, Functions, Weddings, and Corporate portfolio. This is a leadership role for a creatively driven chef who thrives on transforming ideas into wonder-filled experiences.
Whether it’s an intimate beachfront wedding, a tailored corporate event, or a grand island celebration like Hamilton Island Race Week, you will define the benchmark for culinary excellence at one of Australia’s most iconic destinations.
Operating in an ever-evolving events environment, no two days will be the same. You will collaborate closely with clients, event planners, and specialist audio & visual partners to reimagine venues, design immersive themed experiences, and deliver food that not only meets expectations but elevates the entire event. Balancing innovation with operational excellence, you will lead a hands-on team while developing future culinary leaders, ensuring every event reflects creativity, precision, and the unique spirit of Hamilton Island.
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Lead creative, high-profile events across an iconic island destination!
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Live and work in paradise with reef views, no traffic, on island perks and food & beverage discounts
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Career development through Hamilton Island’s large culinary network and in-house training opportunities
As Executive Chef, you’ll oversee culinary delivery for Hamilton Island’s entire functions portfolio. You will manage menus, operations, food quality, financial performance, and team leadership across our high-output events kitchen.
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Lead culinary delivery across weddings, corporate events, and island-wide celebrations
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Translate client visions into bespoke, memorable food experiences
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Create and evolve highly customisable menus, built from curated base offerings
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Work closely with audio & visual partners to transform venues and themed spaces
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Deliver varied, hands-on service across constantly changing event environments
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Ensure no two event days are the same through creative execution and adaptability
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Support activities and outlet offerings as part of the broader events operation
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Develop, mentor, and plan future career pathways for chefs within your team
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Manage staffing, rostering, inventory, budgets, and P&L performance
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Uphold food safety, hygiene, and WH&S standards at all times
You are a flexible, forward-thinking culinary leader who thrives in a dynamic, fast-moving environment. You are passionate about creativity, enjoy bringing concepts to life, and understand the importance of developing people alongside delivering exceptional events.
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (Essential)
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Current Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (Essential)
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Valid Driver Licence (Essential)
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Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Head Chef or Executive Chef position
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Proven experience in high-volume catering and off-site food service
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Excellent leadership, mentoring, and succession planning skills
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Experience with budgeting, procurement, and food costing
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High standards of food quality, creativity, and presentation
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Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, or equivalent systems
Our mission is to share the wonder of Hamilton Island with the world by creating wonder-filled experiences for our guests, employees and community.
Every team member plays a role in shaping those experiences – making Hamilton Island not just a great place to visit, but a great place to work.
A little island can do wonders – make your next career move one to remember!
