An exciting opportunity has become available for an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen of a busy, community-focused hospitality venue in Melbourne’s south-east. This is a hands-on leadership role suited to someone who thrives in high-volume environments, leads from the front during service, and knows how to build strong kitchen culture.
Working closely with senior venue leadership, you will oversee all back-of-house operations including service standards, team development, rostering, ordering, stock control, and financial performance. The venue operates at significant volume, delivering up to 1000 covers across peak trade periods, so strong organisational skills and the ability to lead calm, efficient services are essential.
This role is ideal for a Head Chef who can balance creativity and consistency while developing a motivated and high-performing kitchen team.
About You
- Proven experience as a Head Chef within high-volume pubs, breweries, or large-scale hospitality venues
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing and mentoring large kitchen teams
- Confident leading busy services while maintaining consistency, speed, and food quality
- Solid understanding of food cost management, labour control, rostering, and kitchen financials
- Ability to create systems, structure, and accountability within a fast-paced operation
- Passionate about modern pub food, seasonal produce, and delivering quality guest experiences
- Calm under pressure with strong communication and organisational skills
- A hands-on leader who leads by example and drives standards across the kitchen
- Salary package up to $100,000 + superannuation
- Join a well-established, high-performing hospitality venue with a strong local following
- Large-scale operation with strong support from senior management
- Opportunity to put your stamp on menu direction, kitchen culture, and team development
- Stable roster and long-term career opportunity within a growing hospitality group
- Supportive team culture focused on quality, consistency, and progression