* Hospitality
* Management / Supervisors
* Fitzroy, VIC
* Full time
4/2/2026
* Shape the vision and performance of a busy commercial kitchen
* Drive innovation, efficiency & continuous improvement across catering operations
* Play a key role in a mission-led enterprise creating meaningful social impact
About Us:
Founded in 2001, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is Australia's largest human rights organisation providing support to people seeking asylum. We are an independent not-for-profit organisation whose programs support and empower people seeking asylum to maximise their own physical, mental and social well being. We champion the rights of people seeking asylum and mobilise a community of compassion to create lasting social and policy change.
We are a values-driven organisation that strives to be part of a change movement that supports people seeking asylum by providing critical services such as assistance with accommodation, food, medical and legal services.
The ASRC movement is proudly supported by a community of committed volunteers and supporters who embrace the organisation's vision that people seeking asylum can live safely, sustainably, independently and equally.
About the Role:
As Head Chef, you will have overall accountability for the kitchen's performance, leading people, menus, systems and standards. You'll oversee day-to-day operations, ensure strong financial and compliance outcomes, and work closely with enterprise leaders to deliver high-quality catering while supporting training and employment pathways within a social enterprise environment.
Key Accountabilities:
* Lead and manage all kitchen operations, including staff, workflows, stock control and ordering
* Develop, train and support kitchen team members through effective supervision and performance planning
* Plan, test and deliver menus aligned with house style, budget and a predominantly vegetarian offering
* Ensure compliance with food safety, HACCP, OH&S and licensing requirements
* Manage labour, food costs and stock to meet budget and performance targets
* Work collaboratively with enterprise leaders to support business planning and continuous improvement
About You:
You are an experienced kitchen leader with strong people management skills and a passion for delivering high-quality food. You bring sound knowledge of commercial kitchen operations, food safety and cost control, and enjoy mentoring and developing others. You're organised, collaborative and values-driven, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced catering environment while contributing to a purpose-led social enterprise.
Essential skills & qualifications
* Trade-qualified Chef with senior chef certification
* 3–5+ years' experience leading commercial kitchen teams
* Proven people management, training and performance review capability
* Strong experience in menu planning, labour and food cost control
* Sound knowledge of HACCP, food safety, OH&S and compliance standards
* Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, ordering and stock control
* Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
* Experience working with and supporting people from diverse backgrounds
Lived experience of seeking asylum in Australia is highly desirable as is knowledge of policy and issues impacting on people seeking asylum in Australia.
Employee Benefits:
We recognise and appreciate our incredible staff for their contribution, dedication and passion to support and empower people seeking asylum by providing the following conditions above the relevant modern award.
* Annual Leave Loading of 17.5%
* Additional discretionary leave provisions
* Free onsite car and bicycle parking
* Salary packaging (up to $15,900 per year tax free)
* Entertainment Packaging (up to $2,650 per year tax free)
* Discounts via HR systems provider at grocery and retail outlets
Application Process:
Only applications that include a CV and cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria, will be considered.
The job ad closes on 18 February 2026 at 11:59pm.
Applications will be assessed as they come in and job ad may close earlier if role is filled.
Please review the position description:
All offers of employment are subject to a satisfactory Criminal History Check and provision of a valid Working with Children Check prior to commencement.