Executive Chef

Full time, permanent position

Geelong, Southwest Coast VIA (based in Melbourne CBD (temporarily)

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention & Event Centre - Executive Chef

We are seeking a highly skilled Executive Chef to support the General Manager – Nyaal Banyul in delivering strategic goals for Nyaal Banyul and the Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET).

This role provides high-level administrative and project coordination while engaging with senior government, community, and corporate leaders. It requires exceptional communication, initiative, discretion, and confidentiality.

About Nyaal Banyul

Set to open in 2026 on the Geelong Waterfront, Nyaal Banyul will be Australia’s newest convention and event centre. Operated by the Victorian Convention and Exhibition Trust (VCET), this premier venue features a 1,000-seat theatre and 3,700 square meters of versatile event space, ready to host everything from community gatherings to major conferences and entertainment events.

Located in a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning waterfront, and thriving arts scene, Nyaal Banyul is a place where everyone is invited to share stories, connect, and celebrate special moments.

About the Role

• Responsible for overseeing all aspects of Nyaal Banyul’s commercial kitchen operations
• Instrumental in shaping our culinary identity, optimising operations and delivering world-class culinary experiences to our customers
• Support project readiness for venue opening
• Oversee the culinary development program in creating and executing innovative and memorable menus tailored to the unique needs and preferences of our guests across Catering and Retail offerings.
• Provide updates and information to the wider business on high-level matters that impact event and/or F&B operations.
• Bring subject matter knowledge and deep expertise in culinary operations to all kitchen departments and have a coaching mindset to ensure kitchen members are continually building their mastery and autonomy.
• Develop and implement concepts to maintain the division’s competitive edge.
• Collaborate closely with event planners and venue managers to ensure seamless coordination and execution of culinary offerings.
• Work closely with the leaders in Nyaal Banyul Food and Beverage to develop and implement strategies to drive revenue growth and profitability while maintaining a competitive edge in the market.
• Display a strong cost focus to effectively manage all cost centres to budget.
• Develop your direct reports to ensure they and their teams are delivering the customer experience to Nyaal Banyul service standards and exceeding customer expectations.
• Work closely with the Food and Beverage leadership team and food safety manager to generate and develop new ideas to improve food safety for our customers
• Develop and implement food safety procedures and operational work instructions for the Food and Beverage teams.

About you:

• Knowledge and experience in Culinary Leadership minimum 5 years
• Extensive knowledge in food production within a large scale operation
• Ability to implement and maintain a prosperous food philosophy
• Extensive knowledge in produce and provedores

Our Culture

At Nyaal Banyul, we honour diversity, inclusivity, and teamwork. We create a welcoming space where ideas are shared, communities thrive, and legacies are built. Our goal is to be the world’s most trusted partner in delivering impactful events.

Guided by unity, responsibility, and respect, we strive for excellence and shared success. We value collective success, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Our Gender Equality Action Plan promotes inclusivity, representation, and a positive culture.

Ready to Apply?

Apply today with your CV and Cover Letter. For questions not covered or for a confidential discussion, contact: careers@nyaalbanyul.com.au

Applications close on: Wednesday 12 March, 2025

*Noting that candidates may be contacted earlier than the above-mentioned date.

Welcome to Nyaal Banyul

Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD, Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre welcomes you to the waterfront of Wadawurrung land, continuing the traditions of knowledge-sharing and gathering that span thousands of generations.

Deeply embedded in layers of Country, Nyaal Banyul, meaning ‘open your eyes to the hills’ in Wadawurrung language, immerses you in the sky, sea, and land around you. Experience the transformative power of discovery and connection at Geelong's newest venue.

With a 1,000-seat theatre and 3,700 square meters of versatile event space, Nyaal Banyul brings events to life, from community gatherings to conferences and entertainment. The surrounding precinct, with diverse shops, a public plaza, and a vibrant 200-room Crowne Plaza hotel, enhances Geelong's charm. Nyaal Banyul is an event destination like no other.

Who is VCET?

Victorian Convention and Exhibition Trust (VCET) manages and operates Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and the upcoming Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.

VCET oversees the strategic direction and operational management of both venues, ensuring they deliver world-class events and experiences. Committed to innovation, sustainability, and excellence, MCET plays a pivotal role in positioning Victoria as a leading global destination for conferences, exhibitions, and events.

Video link: https://youtu.be/Vx6T7iWhClM?si=IICYc0R-YWXNWOXg