Job Description
Our client is a celebrated Yarra Valley destination, renowned for its premium wines and commitment to sustainable practices. At the heart of the estate lies its signature hatted-level restaurant, offering a contemporary, produce-driven menu that reflects the seasonality, richness, and diversity of the region. This role offers the opportunity to set the culinary direction, create exceptional menus, and deliver outstanding food experiences that complement our award-winning wine and hospitality offering.
About the Role
As Head Chef, you will oversee all aspects of the kitchen, from menu development and cost control to team leadership and food safety compliance. You’ll manage a diverse offering across the restaurant, private dining, and events, ensuring a consistently high standard for every guest.
This is a hands-on leadership role where you will inspire and develop your team, maintain strong supplier relationships, and collaborate closely with management to drive the success of the venue.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the kitchen team to deliver an exceptional dining experience across restaurant, private dining, and events.
- Create, test, and cost seasonal menus that highlight fresh, local produce (minimum 4 new menus annually).
- Maintain food quality, presentation, and consistency to meet high standards and customer expectations.
- Oversee ordering, stock management, and supplier relationships to achieve food cost targets.
- Ensure compliance with all Food Safety and OHS requirements.
- Train, mentor, and review staff performance, fostering a positive BOH/FOH team culture.
- Monitor customer feedback and work collaboratively with management to address and improve.
Requirements
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in a premium or high-volume restaurant.
- Strong business acumen with the ability to manage budgets, costs, and staffing efficiently.
- Passion for seasonal, local produce, with creativity and flair in menu design.
- Excellent leadership and communication skills, able to inspire and develop a high-performing team.
- Strong organisational and multitasking ability, with a commitment to quality and detail.
- In-depth knowledge of Food Safety standards and OHS compliance.
- Relevant culinary qualifications and Food Handler Certificate.
What The Role Offers:
- Opportunity to shape the culinary vision of a renowned destination venue.
- A collaborative, supportive team culture.
- Career development in one of Victoria’s most iconic wine regions.
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
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