* As head chef, use local produce and engage with producers
* Lead, mentor, and inspire the team
* Gain media recognition and promotion
Relocate to Newcastle, NSW
Modern. Produce-Driven. Career-Defining.
We're exclusively partnered with a leading Newcastle hospitality group to find a rare culinary leader—a head chef to shape a modern, produce-driven kitchen.
This is not your average venue. It's a purpose-built restaurant with strong systems, a beautiful kitchen, and a team that prioritises quality, collaboration, and consistency. Whether you're a Senior Sous ready to step up or a current Head Chef seeking the right environment to grow your brand, this is the opportunity to make your mark — with full support from experienced operators who understand how to run a restaurant properly.
Why This Role Stands Out
Creative Ownership, with Structure Behind You
This is your kitchen to lead — with the freedom to develop your own food identity. You'll have full input on menu direction, supplier relationships, and team leadership, while still benefiting from solid operational support and business mentorship.
Professional Systems and Smart Support
This isn't a solo role or an under-resourced venue. You'll have a skilled team and solid systems supporting everything from ordering and costing to labour and compliance.
Room to Grow and Build Your Brand
Once you've embedded into the business and delivered on consistency, the venue will get behind you with PR and marketing support — helping build your profile as one of Newcastle's key food figures.
Your Focus in the First 6–12 Months
Menu Development and Culinary Identity
* Create a seasonal menu that reflects your style and highlights the region's best produce
* Build consistency across à la carte and group dining formats
* Collaborate with trusted suppliers to source and showcase premium ingredients
Leadership and Kitchen Culture
* Lead, mentor, and support a team of chefs, apprentices, and sous leaders
* Foster a positive, high-performance culture focused on growth and consistency
* Build a team that's proud of what they deliver — and how they deliver it
About The Venue
Located in Newcastle in a premium, food-savvy neighbourhood, this architecturally designed restaurant is a flagship site
A fully equipped kitchen designed for service flow and chef experience, with every step from prep to pass running seamlessly.
What's On Offer
* Salary up to $120,000 + Super, depending on experience
* Relocation assistance for interstate candidates
* Two weeks' temporary accommodation provided
* Access to excellent suppliers and group-wide operational tools
* Future marketing support to help build your brand as Head Chef
* Strong leadership support from a values-driven and experienced team
Who This Role Suits
* A Senior Sous or existing Head Chef with strong experience in modern produce-led cuisine
* Confident in leading teams and running a kitchen, but open to mentoring and growth on the commercial side
* Passionate about hospitality, detail-focused, and calm under pressure
* Excited by the idea of shaping a menu and a team in a venue that truly values food and people
* Professional, well-organised, and motivated by the long game
Confidential discussions are welcome. Apply now to take your place in one of Newcastle's most respected kitchens.
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