Executive Chef

WHY THIS ROLE, WHY CAIRNS, WHY ACCOR

Pullman Cairns International is seeking a visionary Executive Chef to lead a dynamic 25-person brigade in a flagship 5-star environment, where culinary excellence and innovation are at the heart of everything we do. Situated in the tropical paradise of North Queensland, this role offers the perfect balance of professional challenge and lifestyle, with easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests and the relaxed, vibrant Cairns way of life. As part of the global Accor network, you’ll enjoy exceptional career development opportunities, international mobility and exclusive travel benefits. In this role, you will shape a diverse culinary operation spanning food and beverage outlets, banquets, events and specialty offerings such as high teas and artisanal pastries, while collaborating with a supportive senior leadership team that values creativity, innovation and delivering extraordinary guest experiences.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Join Pullman Cairns International as an inspiring and hands‑on Executive Chef, leading one of the region’s most dynamic and diverse culinary environments.

This role oversees:

• Coco’s Kitchen + Bar - high‑quality local seafood, à la carte, buffets, high teas
• Banquets & Events — including Cairns’ largest pillar‑less ballroom (350 banquet / 650 theatre)
• In‑Room Dining, Lobby Bar and Pool Bar
• External catering 
• Cakes by Coco’s — premium 48‑hour artisan cake range

You will lead and develop a 25‑person team across chefs, apprentices and stewarding.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Lead and inspire the full culinary brigade across all hotel outlets
• Develop seasonal menus for restaurant, banquets, high teas and external catering
• Deliver large‑scale events (350–650 guests) with precision and creativity
• Manage food and labour costs, purchasing, stock control and financial performance
• Set and uphold exceptional standards in quality, safety, consistency and presentation
• Drive training, mentoring and succession planning for the team
• Maintain full compliance with HACCP and all food safety requirements

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

• Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef experience in premium 4–5★ operations
• Strong high‑volume banquet capability (350–650 pax)
• Experience in or readiness to lead external catering
• A leadership style that is collaborative, confident and highly operational
• Commercial acumen, strong communication skills and a passion for developing people
• Trade qualification + Food Safety Supervisor certification

ABOUT PULLMAN CAIRNS INTERNATIONAL

Pullman Cairns International is a 5‑star landmark hotel with 324 rooms, a grand three‑storey lobby, and an extensive conference offering of 13 versatile event spaces — including Cairns’ largest pillar‑less ballroom.  Coco’s Kitchen + Bar is known for its focus on local produce, premium seafood, signature high teas and refined dining.  Cakes by Coco’s provides an artisanal pre‑order cake range, crafted fresh with a 48‑hour turnaround.

As part of Accor, team members enjoy global benefits, training, and genuine career pathways.

APPLY NOW

If you are ready to lead a high‑profile culinary team in a world‑class tropical location, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply with your CV or reach out for a confidential conversation with the General Manager.

 

Why work for Accor?

Accor is one of the largest global hospitality businesses, with over 5400 Hotels across 110+ countries, the career development opportunities are endless.

Benefits Your Way

• Access to global accommodation and F&B discounts
• #LearnYourWay with a sophisticated modern training platform, which offers a constantly expanding database of free, industry focused training.
• Recognition of service anniversaries and Accor Tenure Milestones.

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion.

• We are an inclusive employer, and our ambition is to attract, recruit, and develop diverse talent. We offer reasonable adjustments to support you. If you require an adjustment to be made during the recruitment process, you are most welcome to let us know.