Overview
Executive Chef - Orpheus Island Lodge
Full-time, live-on role | Remote, Tropical Island, Far North Queensland | Part of Morris Escapes & Morris Group
Orpheus Island Lodge, part of the Morris Escapes collection, is re-opening after a 5-month refurbishment and is seeking an experienced and inspiring Executive Chef to lead our culinary offering at our exclusive island luxury lodge. This is a hands-on leadership role for a chef who loves creating memorable dining experiences, enjoys the rhythm of remote living, and takes pride in looking after both guests and staff.
In addition to leading the kitchen at Orpheus, the successful candidate will also oversee catering for exclusive guest bookings on Pelorus Private Island, ensuring the same premium culinary standards are delivered across both locations. This position is for the start of our season in June with the role commencing in late April to allow for a smooth transition, bookings on Pelorus Private Island in May, and pre-season preparation.
Responsibilities
* Design and deliver refined, contemporary, daily changing menus for our guests that reflect our island location and premium positioning.
* Lead daily kitchen operations across breakfast, lunch, dinner, special events, and bespoke experiences.
* Plan, prepare, and deliver nutritious, varied, and cost-effective staff dinners that support wellbeing and morale of the on-site team.
* Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, presentation, and portion control.
* Oversee all food safety, hygiene, and compliance requirements.
* Develop seasonal menus that hero local, regional, and Australian produce.
* Manage ordering, stock control, and supplier relationships to achieve budgeted food costs and minimise waste.
* Maintain an organised, efficient, and safe kitchen environment, ensuring equipment is cleaned, cared for, and fit for service.
* Coordinate catering for special functions, group events, and VIP experiences.
Staff Catering
* Plan weekly rotating staff dinner menus that are balanced, satisfying, and responsive to dietary requirements.
* Prepare high-quality, home-style staff meals that reflect care for your team and support a positive lodge culture.
* Implement simple systems for staff meal feedback and continuous improvement.
* Ensure best-practice food safety for staff meals, including correct labeling, storage, and allergen management.
* Lead, mentor, and roster a small kitchen team.
* Build a positive, respectful, and professional kitchen culture that aligns with Orpheus Island Lodge and Morris Escapes values.
* Train the team in food safety, kitchen standards, and service expectations, leading by example on the pass.
* Manage performance and development, providing regular coaching and feedback.
* Work collaboratively with the General Manager, Front Office, and Food & Beverage teams to deliver a seamless guest experience.
Opportunities for Partners
* For the right candidate, there may be roles available in other departments for partners, including (subject to current vacancies): Food & Beverage, Activities & Watersports, Grounds / Maintenance.
If you are considering applying as a couple, please mention this in your application so we can discuss suitable opportunities across the lodge.
Growth Across Morris Escapes & Morris Group
As part of Morris Escapes and the wider Morris Group, this role offers genuine long-term career potential. Outstanding performance in this position can open doors to:
* Future opportunities across other Morris Escapes properties.
* Cross-property secondments and development experiences.
* Career pathways across the broader Morris Group portfolio for those looking to grow beyond a single site.
You will be joining a business that invests in its people and encourages progression for those who are committed, capable, and aligned with our values.
About You
* Qualified Chef with solid experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef, ideally in luxury lodges, resorts, or remote hospitality.
* Proven experience leading and managing small teams, including recruitment, rostering, training, and performance management.
* Strong understanding of food cost control, purchasing, and stock management.
* Demonstrated ability to execute premium guest dining while also delivering consistent, high-quality staff meals.
* Calm, organised, and solutions-focused, with excellent communication skills.
* Comfortable living and working in a remote environment and contributing positively to a small, close-knit community.
* Comfortable talking to our guests upon their arrival to welcome them and discuss their dietary needs.
What We Offer
* Competitive remuneration package, including live-on accommodation and meals.
* A unique opportunity to live and work on a remote, iconic island location.
* A supportive lodge and group leadership team.
* Clear opportunities for career growth across Morris Escapes and the wider Morris Group portfolio.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining:
* Your relevant Executive Chef experience (including remote or lodge experience, if any).
* Your approach to both guest dining and staff meals.
* Your availability to commence in late April for a season starting in March.
* If applying with a partner, please include their CV and area of interest, and note that you are applying as a couple.
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