Head Chef

The Norman Hotel; City of Brisbane; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Job summary

The Norman Hotel in Brisbane is seeking an experienced Head Chef to take ownership of day-to-day kitchen operations, leading a large team across our à la carte and events offerings. You will balance a busy service with planning, cost control, team development and consistent execution, at the heart of our open grill and premium beef concept.

We’re looking for hands-on leaders who communicate confidently, stay calm under pressure and bring positive energy to the kitchen every day.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years' experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume venue.
• Proven experience leading a large kitchen brigade.
• Current Food Safety Supervisor certification.
• Strong commercial acumen including food cost, labour cost, stock control and wastage management.
• Excellent communication, organisation and problem-solving skills.
• Hands‑on leadership style and a commitment to team development.
• Passion for food quality, consistency and guest experiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and develop a large kitchen brigade, setting clear expectations and maintaining high standards.
• Work collaboratively with the Front of House team to deliver smooth, efficient and memorable service.
• Maintain consistent food quality, presentation and timely delivery, even during peak trading periods.
• Maintain and continually improve food standards, preparation processes and kitchen execution.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on menu development, seasonal offerings and special events.
• Deliver high-quality menus for signature events, wine dinners and major functions.
• Manage food and labour costs, ordering, stock control, wastage and kitchen budgets.
• Oversee staff scheduling, rostering, training and daily workforce requirements.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety legislation, workplace health and safety requirements, and venue procedures.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen management

Cost control

Food safety

Communication

Job description

As Head Chef, you'll take ownership of the day-to-day kitchen operations, leading a large team across our à la carte and functions offerings. You'll balance the demands of a busy service with strong planning, cost control, team development and consistent execution. Our open grill and premium beef offering are at the heart of what we do. Beyond the grill, our events — from intimate Wine Dinners to Norman's Big Lunch — provide opportunities to showcase creativity, attention to detail and a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences. We're looking for someone who leads from the front, communicates confidently and brings positive, infectious energy to the kitchen every day.

Key responsibilities

Lead, motivate and develop a large kitchen brigade, setting clear expectations and maintaining high standards.

Work collaboratively with the Front of House team to deliver smooth, efficient and memorable service.

Maintain consistent food quality, presentation and timely delivery, even during peak trading periods.

Maintain and continually improve food standards, preparation processes and kitchen execution.

Collaborate with the Executive Chef on menu development, seasonal offerings and special events.

Contribute creative ideas and deliver high-quality menus for signature events, wine dinners and major functions.

Manage food and labour costs, ordering, stock control, wastage and kitchen budgets.

Oversee staff scheduling, rostering, training and daily workforce requirements.

Ensure full compliance with food safety legislation, workplace health and safety requirements, and venue procedures.

About you

At least 2 years' experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume venue.

Proven experience managing and leading a large kitchen brigade.

Current Food Safety Supervisor certification.

Strong commercial acumen, including food cost, labour cost, stock control and wastage management.

Excellent communication, organisation and problem-solving skills.

The ability to remain composed under pressure and take ownership of outcomes.

A hands‑on leadership style and a genuine commitment to team development.

A passion for food quality, consistency and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

About us

The Norman Hotel is an institution in Brisbane hospitality — renowned for its exceptional steaks, open-grill experience and vibrant atmosphere. From family gatherings and business lunches to large-scale celebrations and signature events, we pride ourselves on delivering outstanding food and memorable experiences. We are a passionate, professional and family‑owned Brisbane hospitality group.

Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Immediate start for the right candidate.

The opportunity to lead the kitchen of one of Brisbane's most recognised hospitality venues.

A genuine pathway for career development as our venue group expands.

The opportunity to work closely with our Executive Chef and contribute to the future direction of our food offering.

A varied and rewarding role spanning high-volume service, premium beef and exclusive events.