Job Description
Client Profile
This highly regarded hospitality group is celebrated as one of Australia’s most influential operators, known for curating a portfolio of iconic, design-driven venues. Its flagship Melbourne restaurant is widely considered the crown jewel of the group—a sophisticated brasserie that channels the glamour of early 20th-century Europe and America. Since opening, it has achieved both critical and global recognition, firmly establishing itself as a modern dining institution. The venue seamlessly blends opulent design with a vibrant bar-led energy, delivering an experience that is as immersive as it is refined.
Job Description
As Head Chef, you will take full custodianship of the kitchen within this landmark venue, continuing to evolve a menu defined by restrained sophistication and exceptional produce. The offering balances classical European foundations with contemporary execution, featuring signature elements such as wood-fired cooking and elegantly composed, ingredient-driven dishes.
- Lead, mentor, and inspire a large, high-performing brigade
- Guide the direction of a refined, Eurocentric menu with a modern sensibility
- Uphold exceptional standards across execution, consistency, and presentation
- Oversee all kitchen operations including financial performance and supplier relationships
- Foster a disciplined, high-performance culture aligned with the venue’s reputation
Candidate Profile
You are an accomplished culinary leader with experience operating at the highest level of the industry. Hatted experience is widely regarded, reflecting your ability to deliver precision, consistency, and excellence in premium dining environments. You bring a balanced approach across leadership, creativity, and commercial performance, with the ability to operate both strategically and hands-on.
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a Head Chef in an award-winning environment, in Australia or internationally
- Exceptional leadership capability with a proven ability to coach, mentor, and develop high-performing teams
- Hands-on operator with the ability to plan and execute seasonal menu changes across multiple revenue streams
- Highly developed communication skills across stakeholders, suppliers, and guests
- Positive, collaborative, and consultative leadership style
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to analyse performance and implement improvements
- Proven capability in forecasting and managing labour and COGs in line with budget
- Thorough understanding of food safety and regulatory compliance
- Full Australian working rights
Offer
An attractive remuneration package will be offered, commensurate with the seniority and profile of this position. This is a rare opportunity to lead a globally recognised, flagship venue within one of Australia’s most respected hospitality groups, offering long-term career progression and industry acclaim.
To learn more about this role, submit your CV or contact Lee Thompson via lee@hastingspeople.com.au for a confidential discussion.
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