Lead Chef & Menu Architect

Delia Group; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Maha Restaurant in Melbourne is seeking a Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, manage staff, and drive growth while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. You will lead the team, mentor chefs, and ensure consistent, creative dishes that reflect the venue’s style.

You will also manage food costs, supplier relationships, and collaboration with front-of-house to deliver exceptional dining experiences for guests.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct all day-to-day operations of the kitchen
• Lead the training, development, and growth of all staff in all areas of the kitchen
• Educate and pass on knowledge to staff on the fundamentals of cooking
• Empower kitchen team to make decisions, develop, take on responsibility and meet clearly defined goals and objectives
• Ensure all preparation is done according to well defined recipes demonstrating consistency and meeting quality standards
• Constantly look for ways to improve all aspects of kitchen operations
• Constantly strive to improve plating and quality of dishes produced
• Provide and maintain a positive work environment and professional management approach
• Recruit and develop kitchen staff to cover roles and ensure smooth operations
• Maintain food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards and record-keeping
• Manage purchasing, costing, and supplier relationships to meet budget targets
• Collaborate with front-of-house to ensure guest satisfaction and strong service levels
• Review staffing, rostering, stock levels, and wastage to control costs
• Drive menu development and costed menu items aligned with brand and venue style
• Foster teamwork between back and front of house for an optimal dining experience
• Address guest feedback and solve problems promptly as they arise
• Monitor compliance with safety procedures and health department requirements
• Lead by example with consistent presentation and professional conduct
• Contribute to recruitment and onboarding of new kitchen staff
• Assist management with annual budgeting targets and performance reviews

Job description

Maha Restaurant in Melbourne is seeking a Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, manage staff, and drive growth while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. You will lead the team, mentor chefs, and ensure consistent, creative dishes that reflect the venue’s style.

You will also manage food costs, supplier relationships, and collaboration with front-of-house to deliver exceptional dining experiences for guests.