Director of Food and Beverage

Rydges Resort Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale, New South Wales, Australia •

430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale NSW 2325, Australia

Rydges is part of EVT, and being a part of EVT means believing in changing the game. Why? Because no one wants ordinary. If you're seeking to be part of the kind of wow-factor moments you can help shape, then you've come to the right place.

About EVT:

As market-leading experience creators, we bring to life some of the best-known brands and properties in entertainment, ventures, and travel. Our portfolio includes over 140 entertainment experiences like Event Cinemas and Moonlight Cinemas, 150 award-winning restaurants and bars, and 80+ hotels, including QT, Rydges, Atura, LyLo, Independent Collection by EVT and Thredbo. Our ventures include a ~$2.3B property portfolio and hotel management, just to name a few.

About Rydges:

Proudly Australian & New Zealand owned, Rydges Hotels & Resorts provides a diverse range of elevated city, suburban, and resort-style hotels. From classic charm to sophisticated style, our properties have every detail considered to deliver a refreshingly local experience with exceptional comforts catering to all guests. Join our team of local heroes dedicated to enhancing every guest’s stay.

About the Role

We are seeking a dynamic Director of Food & Beverage to lead the operations of our $20 million Food & Beverage Department. Imagine the opportunity to create exceptional experiences for our guests.

As a crucial member of the senior leadership team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our food and beverage strategy This is your chance to showcase your creativity and leadership in a vibrant wine region, building meaningful relationships with local winemakers and food artisans.

Key Responsibilities

- Strategic Leadership: Actively participate in the hotel’s leadership team to develop and execute a cohesive food and beverage strategy that aligns with our overall vision.

- Culinary Collaboration: Work closely with the Executive Chef to design creative, seasonal menus, and partner with Venue Managers to curate outstanding beverage offerings across restaurants, bars, in-room dining, and events.

- Innovative Experiences: Collaborate with Venue Managers to create and implement exciting new offerings that enhance guest experiences and celebrate local flavours.

- Financial Oversight: Monitor budgets and control costs related to food, beverage, and labour. Utilise EVT scheduling tools to enhance payroll efficiency and productivity through careful people planning and regular meetings.

- Guest Relations: Address guest comments and complaints promptly, including feedback on social media, to foster continuous improvement and strengthen relationships.

- Talent Development: Lead recruitment, onboarding, and succession planning initiatives, fostering a culture that attracts, retains, and motivates top talent.

- Performance Management: Implement EVT tools for managing team performance, ensuring consistent feedback, check‑ins, and robust Personal Development Plans for all team members.

Skills & Experience

- Extensive Experience: Significant experience managing a large-scale, multifaceted food and beverage operation, demonstrating a strong understanding of the industry.

- Project Management Expertise: Excellent project management skills with the ability to think creatively and develop unforgettable food and beverage activations and experiences for our guests.

- Communication Skills: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with a passion for delivering results and fostering the development of your team.

- Relationship Management: Proven ability to manage complex relationships, demonstrating an aptitude for interacting positively with guests, staff, owners and third-party partners, reflecting well on the hotel and the brand.

- Required Certifications: Valid certifications, including NSW Responsible Service of Alcohol and a current driver’s license.

- Incredible team member discounts from your first day on‑the‑job.

- 50% off stays at EVT hotels – Rydges, QT, Atura, Lylo and more.

- $2 movie tickets, plus Moonlight, Gold Class, Candy Bar discounts and more.

- Awesome winter and summer savings and discounts at Thredbo.

- Rapidcareer growth opportunities through our EVT network.

- Local community involvement, volunteering and charitable giving.

- Australia and NZ’s largest and most diverse experiences company

Join Rydges and become an EVT experience creator, opportunity taker, the ultimate Daymaker. Join and make a positive impact on our people, communities, and environment every day.

Rydges Resort Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale, New South Wales, Australia

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