Overview
HEAD CHEF – Events, Functions, Weddings & Corporate Catering / Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is seeking a dynamic and experienced
Head Chef
to lead culinary delivery across our expansive Events & Conventions portfolio. From elegant weddings and corporate retreats to large-scale events like
Hamilton Island Race Week
and
The Great Barrier Feast
, this is a rare opportunity to oversee the
largest event kitchen in the Whitsundays
—all set on one of Australia's most breathtaking island destinations.
Why you'll love working with us
Take the lead in one of Australia's most stunning resort environments, guiding a passionate culinary team.
Live the island lifestyle – enjoy tropical living, no commute, and daily inspiration from the sea and sky.
Enjoy premium benefits – attractive salary, subsidised accommodation, and exclusive staff perks including gym and dining discounts.
Your Role
As Head Chef of the Events team, you'll lead culinary operations across the island for everything from large-scale gala dinners and corporate retreats to elegant weddings and pop-up activations. You will oversee a team of chefs, manage kitchen operations, design bespoke menus, and ensure each event exceeds expectations in quality, execution, and guest satisfaction. Reporting to the Executive Chef and Culinary Director, you'll play a key role in driving consistency, innovation, and performance in a high-output, high-standard kitchen environment.
Where you'll make an impact
Lead and develop a dedicated team across all Conventions & Events kitchen operations
Oversee catering for
450+ weddings
, large-scale conferences (up to 1,000 pax), and iconic events like
Hamilton Island Race Week
and
The Great Barrier Feast
Design and cost seasonal and custom event menus aligned with dietary needs and guest expectations
Maintain premium standards across presentation, quality, and service delivery
Collaborate with the Events Planning team and key stakeholders to ensure seamless operational delivery
Monitor team performance, inventory, labour costs, P&L, and food cost targets
Champion food safety and compliance protocols island-wide
Foster a positive kitchen culture built on training, mentorship, and consistency
What we're looking for
You're a passionate, experienced, and creative culinary leader who thrives in dynamic, high-pressure environments. You lead by example, deliver exceptional results, and bring a hands-on approach to training and innovation. You understand what it takes to deliver large-scale events at a luxury level and are excited to drive excellence at every touchpoint.
To be successful, you will need:
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (Essential)
Food Safety Supervisor Cerificate (Essential)
Valid Drivers Licence (Essential)
Minimum 5 years\' experience as a Head Chef or in a senior kitchen leadership role
Proven experience managing high-volume operations, off-site catering, and luxury event execution
Strong leadership and team development skills with a focus on motivation and mentorship
Excellent knowledge of food safety, kitchen compliance, and reporting practices
Experience in budgeting, procurement, costing, and rostering
Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite
About Hamilton Island
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
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