We are seeking a dynamic, career-driven and technically proficient Head/Executive Chef to lead the kitchen operations at Rydges Palmerston/ Madame Za.

This position is hands-on and operationally focused, with a strong emphasis on night service leadership, particularly Friday and Saturday evenings.

Our hotel features 200 rooms, the highly regarded Madame Za Restaurant & Bar, and multiple conference and event spaces. This is an exciting opportunity to lead one of Palmerston’s most vibrant dining destinations.

We are looking for a motivated culinary leader with extensive experience in Asian and South Asian cuisine, capable of driving performance, quality, and team engagement.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and develop a high-performing kitchen brigade
- Drive excellence across night service operations, ensuring consistency and efficiency
- Oversee menu planning, seasonal development, and food costing
- Maintain strict food cost controls and minimise wastage
- Deliver high-volume à la carte and buffet service to premium standards
- Manage event catering and multi-outlet food production
- Recruit, roster and mentor team members
- Ensure full compliance with HACCP, Food Safety and WH&S; standards
- Maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment
- Demonstrate ownership, accountability and leadership within the kitchen

Skills & Experience Required

To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate:





- Minimum 3–4 years’ experience as a Sous Chef or Head Chef
- At least 3 years’ experience in Asian/South Asian cuisine
- Proven experience in high-volume, upmarket à la carte environments
- Experience managing medium to large kitchen teams
- Solid event and multi-outlet kitchen experience
- Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (essential)
- Sound knowledge of food costing, menu engineering and seasonal planning
- Demonstrated leadership and team development capabilities
- Strong understanding of HACCP, hygiene and WH&S; compliance
- Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment
- Professional communication skills in English
- A calm, solutions-focused and well-presented approach

What We Offer

- Be part of Australia & New Zealand’s largest experiences company
- 50% off stays across EVT hotels (Rydges, QT, Atura, JUCY Snooze & more)
- $2 movie tickets, Gold Class and Candy Bar discounts
- Seasonal savings at Thredbo
- Team member discounts from day one
- Career progression opportunities within the EVT network
- Opportunities for community involvement and volunteering

This is an outstanding opportunity for a driven culinary professional ready to take ownership of a thriving venue and lead from the front during peak service periods.

If you are passionate about food, leadership and delivering exceptional guest experiences, we would love to hear from you.

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📌 Head Chef/Ex. Chef (Northern Territory)
🏢 Rydges Hotels and Resorts
📍 Northern Territory