Head Chef - Lead a High-Volume Resort Kitchen

Rydges Hotels & Resorts; Lovedale; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Team member discounts

Stays at EVT hotels discount

Movie tickets discounts

Thredbo discounts

Career growth opportunities

Community involvement

Job summary

Rydges Resort Hunter Valley is seeking a Head Chef to lead the Lovedale Brewbar kitchen and oversee room service and pool bar operations. You will manage daily kitchen activities and ensure exceptional food quality and timely service in a high-volume setting.

The role requires proven Head Chef experience, strong leadership, and a focus on cost control, staff development, and safe, compliant operations. Weekend and peak period flexibility is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef in a large or high-volume operation.
• Background in pubs, bistros, hotels or casual dining venues.
• Strong leadership, communication and coaching skills.
• Sound knowledge of food cost control, stock management and kitchen financials.
• Ability to work within established systems while contributing new ideas.
• Resilient and able to perform in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Passion for developing and mentoring team members.
• Flexibility to work weekends, public holidays and peak trading periods.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the kitchen team.
• Foster a positive, high-performing kitchen culture.
• Manage rostering, stock control, COGS, labour costs, recruitment, onboarding and training.
• Support team performance and career development.
• Work with the Executive Chef to deliver seasonal menus, specials and promotions.
• Maintain consistency in food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Create menus for events, group dining and peak periods.
• Cater for dietary requirements and guest preferences.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations for Lovedale Brewbar.
• Deliver exceptional food and service during peak trading.
• Partner with Front of House teams to ensure seamless service.
• Monitor workflow and preparation levels.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation and safety.
• Lead by example in food safety, hygiene and WHS practices.

Skills

Head Chef experience

Leadership

Food cost control

Education

Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery

NSW Food Safety Supervisor Certificate

Job description

Rydges Resort Hunter Valley is seeking a Head Chef to lead the Lovedale Brewbar kitchen and oversee room service and pool bar operations. You will manage daily kitchen activities and ensure exceptional food quality and timely service in a high-volume setting.

The role requires proven Head Chef experience, strong leadership, and a focus on cost control, staff development, and safe, compliant operations. Weekend and peak period flexibility is essential.