What are the responsibilities and job description for the Culinary Director position at Kaiya Beach Resort?
Overview
A Rare Opportunity to Lead an Inspired Culinary Vision
At Kaiya Beach Resort, we believe that life is best experienced through thoughtful design, soulful hospitality, and a deep connection to nature and community. Our culinary program reflects this ethos—where each dish tells a story, each gathering is infused with warmth, and every detail is designed with intention.
We are seeking an innovative and visionary Culinary Director to shape the guest experience through a world-class food and beverage program. This role will have complete oversight of all culinary operations, including:
- All dining venues across the resort
- Events and catering, both on-site and off-site
- In-room dining and spa-related culinary offerings
This is a dynamic and first-of-its-kind position, operating within a groundbreaking licensing arrangement between BOKA Restaurant Group, Donnie Madia, and CoralTree Hospitality. The Culinary Director will have the rare opportunity to lead a program that fuses globally recognized culinary excellence with Kaiya’s deeply rooted commitment to authenticity, community, and elevated hospitality.
Responsibilities
- Curate an extraordinary culinary experience that reflects Kaiya’s ethos of refined simplicity, seasonality, and a deep respect for ingredients.
- Provide strategic leadership and hands-on oversight of all kitchens, ensuring excellence in quality, service, and guest satisfaction.
- Collaborate closely with BOKA Restaurant Group and Donnie Madia to uphold brand integrity and bring their culinary philosophy to life within the resort.
- Partner with the Managing Director and Food & Beverage leadership to elevate financial performance, innovation, and operational excellence.
- Build, inspire, and mentor a high-performing culinary team that embodies hospitality, craftsmanship, and a passion for genuine connection.
- Maintain financial accountability, including budgeting, cost control, and revenue management, while fostering sustainability and responsible sourcing practices.
- Ensure exceptional health, safety, and sanitation standards throughout all operations.
Qualifications
- A visionary culinary leader with a deep passion for hospitality, craftsmanship, and storytelling through food.
- A seasoned Executive Chef or Culinary Director with experience in luxury resorts, destination restaurants, or high-profile culinary collaborations.
- A leader with strong financial acumen, adept at balancing creative excellence with business strategy.
- A mentor and culture builder, dedicated to fostering talent and creating a team that thrives on passion and purpose.
- Someone who embraces the Kaiya lifestyle—where simplicity, beauty, and intentionality guide every experience.
- Opening experience of relevant restaurant operations
Why Kaiya?
Kaiya Beach Resort is more than a destination—it’s a way of life. Rooted in the essence of barefoot luxury, we provide a sanctuary where guests can reconnect with what truly matters: meaningful experiences, thoughtful design, and a sense of belonging.
This is an opportunity to lead a culinary program that will set a new standard in resort dining—one that is deeply inspired, innovative, and unforgettable.
If you’re ready to be part of something truly visionary, we invite you to apply.
As a valued member of the CoralTree team, you'll receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Group medical, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits.
- Participation in a pre-tax flexible benefit plan for healthcare and dependent care reimbursement
- An employee assistance program.
- Paid time off/sick time.
- Participation in a 401(k) plan with a company match.
- Team member free room night program.
Join us in creating unforgettable experiences for our guests, building vibrant communities, and shaping the future of travel and hospitality.