Chef Manager / Head Chef & Operations
Italicious Italian Restaurant
Italicious is seeking an experienced Chef Manager to take full operational responsibility for the restaurant.
This role combines hands-on cooking with complete day-to-day management of restaurant operations. The successful candidate will lead the kitchen, manage people and processes, control costs, and ensure consistent operational performance, reporting directly to the owner.
This position is suited to a professional who enjoys ownership, accountability, and autonomy within clear business objectives.
Role Overview
As Chef Manager, you will be responsible for both culinary execution and operational performance. You will play a central role in ensuring the restaurant runs efficiently, profitably, and to consistent standards.
Key Responsibilities
* Cook and lead all services, maintaining quality and consistency
* Manage kitchen staff and oversee daily operations
* Control food cost, labour cost, and kitchen efficiency
* Manage ordering, suppliers, stock levels, and waste reduction
* Develop and maintain a simple, efficient, and profitable Italian menu
* Prepare rosters aligned with trade levels and wage targets
* Set, maintain, and enforce food and operational standards
* Ensure smooth coordination between kitchen and front-of-house
* Take ownership of overall day-to-day restaurant performance
This is a hands-on leadership role, with active involvement in both the kitchen and operational floor.
About You
* Proven experience as a Head Chef, Chef Manager, or similar senior role
* Demonstrated ability to manage both kitchen operations and people
* Strong understanding of food cost, margins, and labour control
* Confident leader with clear communication and decision-making skills
* Business-minded and operationally focused
* Comfortable working independently with accountability for results
* Experience with Italian cuisine is highly regarded
What We Offer
* Salary: AUD 85,000 – 97,000 + performance-based bonus
* A role with real autonomy and responsibility
* Direct access to ownership and clear decision-making structure
* Long-term opportunity within an established and stable restaurant
Job Summary
Hands-on Chef Manager role combining culinary leadership with full responsibility for restaurant operations and performance.
Key Selling Points
* Full operational ownership with clear accountability
* Competitive salary with performance-based incentives
* Established Italian restaurant with long-term growth opportunity