Head Chef | Narooma

The Venue

The Narooma Precinct is part of the Merivale portfolio, located on the stunning NSW South Coast. Bringing together The Quarterdeck, Lynch’s and the soon-to-open boutique hotel The Whale -featuring Dan Hong’s Queen Chow - this is a truly unique coastal offering.

Set against pristine beaches and ocean views, the precinct celebrates fresh local produce, relaxed dining and high-quality execution across multiple venues. With a strong local following and consistent tourism trade, this is a high-volume, multi-faceted operation with real scale and opportunity.

The Roles

We’re looking for an experienced Head Chef or Sous Chef to join the team across the precinct. We are seeking natural leaders, commercially sharp and passionate about building teams and delivering consistently great food. This role suits someone looking for a lifestyle move without compromising on scale, quality or impact - the chance to lead something special in one of the most exciting coastal precincts in NSW. 

• Drive menu execution with a focus on seasonality, local produce and venue identity
• Deliver consistent, high-quality food across multiple offerings and service styles
• Oversee daily operations in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Build strong supplier relationships and champion local sourcing
• Partner closely with senior leaders on food direction
• Be hands-on in service, setting the tone and standards for the team
• Manage financial performance including food cost, labour and forecasting
• Create a positive, high-performing kitchen culture with a focus on development 

The Lifestyle

If you’re ready to step away from the city and into a life shaped by ocean views, fresh coastal air, incredible local seafood, and a warm, tight knit community - this could be your moment.

Working in Narooma offers more than a leadership role; it’s an invitation to build something iconic, contribute to the rhythm of a growing coastal destination, and wake up every day to one of the most breathtaking outlooks on the NSW coastline.

Narooma delivers a true outdoor lifestyle, with year round swimming, surfing, mountain biking, and endless time in nature. It’s also home to world class diving at nearby Montague Island, making it the perfect place for anyone who loves adventure and an active, outdoor community.

Merivale Employee Benefits

• Sponsorship, relocation and accommodation support available.
• 25% staff discount across 90+ Merivale venues.
• Exclusive monthly perks, staff-only rewards and events.
• Merivale Staff Cellar – access to premium wines at staff pricing.
• Unlimited career growth with endless development opportunities.
• Merivale Academy – online and in-person training, including Leadership & Performance, First Aid, Food Safety and more.
• Employee Assistance Program – confidential wellbeing and mental health support, provided by Sonder.
• Employee Referral Program – earn rewards for bringing great people on board.
• Paid parental leave with flexible return-to-work support.