Executive Chef

At Rivo Gold Coast, we're creating a fresh dining experience inspired by the flavours and traditions of the Mediterranean. Guided by seasonality and a close connection to local producers, our kitchen celebrates exceptional ingredients through salt, fire, curing and fermentation. From relaxed aperitivo as the sun sets over the Nerang River to vibrant restaurant dining, poolside experiences and special events, every menu is thoughtfully crafted to bring people together. Set against one of the Gold Coast's most picturesque waterfront locations on Nerang River, Rivo Gold Coast offers an inspiring place to work where creativity, craftsmanship and genuine hospitality come together. 

Lead the Culinary Vision of Rivo Gold Coast

We are seeking an innovative, commercially minded and people-focused Executive Chef to lead the culinary vision of Rivo Gold Coast and establish it as one of the Gold Coast's most exciting new dining destinations.

You will play a defining role in shaping Rivo Gold Coast from the beginning, developing its culinary identity, building its reputation, creating a loyal local following and leading the team that brings the restaurant to life. 

Working closely with the Venue Manager, you will own the culinary direction of Rivo Gold Coast, from menu development and sourcing to kitchen culture, commercial performance and the evolution of the dining experience. 

While Rivo Gold Coast will sit at the heart of the role, your culinary leadership will extend beyond the restaurant, ensuring its philosophy and quality are reflected across poolside dining, events, meetings and other food experiences throughout AC Hotel by Marriott Gold Coast.

If you're passionate about building restaurants, creating food people talk about and leading talented culinary teams, we'd love to hear from you. 

What you'll do:

Create a Destination Dining Experience

• Develop and execute a culinary vision that positions the venue as a leading dining destination on the Gold Coast.
• Design innovative menus and food concepts that attract both locals and travellers.
• Deliver memorable dining experiences that drive guest engagement, loyalty, and repeat visitation.
• Stay ahead of food trends, consumer preferences, and market opportunities to ensure the offering remains relevant and exciting.
• Partner with Marketing, Events, and Commercial teams to develop culinary activations, special events, and promotions.

Lead Culinary Excellence

• Oversee all culinary operations, ensuring exceptional quality, consistency, and presentation.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement across menus, service delivery, and kitchen operations.
• Drive creativity while maintaining strong commercial outcomes.
• Build strong relationships with local suppliers and producers to showcase quality seasonal ingredients.
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and compliance.

Inspire and Develop Great People

• Lead, coach, and mentor a passionate culinary team.
• Create a culture built on collaboration, accountability, learning, and excellence.
• Identify and develop future culinary talent through meaningful coaching and succession planning.
• Foster an engaging workplace where team members feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed.
• Lead by example with a hands-on approach and genuine passion for hospitality.

Drive Business Performance 

• Manage food costs, labour expenses, purchasing, inventory, and operational budgets.
• Deliver strong financial results while maintaining exceptional guest experiences.
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability, efficiency, and operational effectiveness.
• Contribute to the overall success and reputation of the restaurant, bar, events, and hotel dining experiences.
• Uphold Marriott brand standards while continuously elevating the culinary offering.
• An experienced Executive Chef or senior culinary leader with a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences.
• Strong restaurant and lifestyle hospitality experience, ideally within premium dining venues.
• Proven success in menu development, team leadership, and culinary innovation.
• A commercial mindset with the ability to balance creativity and financial performance.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of building engaged and high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment.
• A passion for creating food experiences that attract guests, build loyalty, and strengthen venue reputation. 

What We're Looking For

Why Join Rivo Gold Coast at AC Hotel by Marriott Gold Coast?

This is a rare opportunity to influence the culinary direction of a growing hospitality destination and build a food offering that becomes a benchmark within the local market.

In Return, We Offer:

• Exclusive Marriott Explore Rates with heavily discounted accommodation and food & beverage experiences at more than 10,000 hotels and resorts worldwide across Marriott's portfolio of leading brands.
• Annual Bonus Program, rewarding your contribution to business success.
• Employer-funded Single Health Insurance to support your wellbeing.
• Paid Parental Leave to support you and your family during life's important moments.
• Access to Marriott's global learning, development, and career progression opportunities.
• Recognition programs that celebrate performance, leadership, and service excellence.
• A supportive and inclusive culture where you can bring your authentic self to work every day.
• The opportunity to be part of an internationally recognised brand while making a real impact in a growing and exciting venue.

Join Marriott International and build a career with endless opportunities, exceptional benefits, and a team that's passionate about creating unforgettable experiences.

Bring your energy, passion, and leadership. Help us create a venue the Gold Coast can't stop talking about.

The successful candidate must have unrestricted working rights in Australia for a minimum of two years and be available to work a flexible roster, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.