Lead the Culinary Vision at One of the Hunter's Most Beautiful Estates
Head Chef – Cézan Trattoria & Bar, Krinklewood Estate
Cézan Trattoria & Bar is the new food and wine destination at the heart of Krinklewood Estate — a 150-acre biodynamic property in the Hunter Valley, created in collaboration with the award-winning team at Fennel & Co.
We are now seeking an exceptional Head Chef to lead this ambitious, estate-wide culinary vision.
This is not a standard Head Chef role.
It is an opportunity to shape the food identity of an entire estate — from restaurant to weddings to private dining — and define the future of one of the Hunter's most exciting new venues.
The Opportunity
As Head Chef, you will oversee and elevate all culinary touchpoints across the estate, including:
Cézan Trattoria & Bar — an evolving à la carte restaurant inspired by regional Italian cooking with a hyper-local Krinklewood sensibility
40+ weddings and exclusive events annually — premium, produce-led menus for large-scale celebrations
Private in-room dining for the architect-designed Dimensions X Residences
Future experiences — breakfast service, long-table vineyard lunches, seasonal pop-ups, and more as the estate grows
You will be a founding leader in a bold new food and beverage direction, crafting a hospitality icon from the ground up.
What We're Looking For
We're seeking a Head Chef who embodies leadership, creativity, and a deep respect for ingredients.
Qualifications & Experience
Significant experience as a senior chef, ideally in both restaurant and event environments
A strong culinary point of view rooted in seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine
Proven ability to manage kitchen operations across multiple outlets
Skill in menu development, costing, food safety, and team leadership
A calm, collaborative, solutions-focused style
Passion for building and mentoring a team during an exciting period of growth
Why This Role Is Special
Lead food across a truly unique estate with vineyards, gardens, residences, and event spaces
Help create and grow a new Hunter Valley hospitality landmark
Collaborate with award-winning chefs, winemakers, growers, and creatives
Enjoy a Hunter Valley lifestyle with long-term career growth
Join a small, passionate team where your influence will shape the story from day one
Remuneration & Employment
Competitive salary package commensurate with experience
Full-time position with long-term growth opportunities
Role begins as the estate's hospitality offering expands, allowing you to build systems, shape team culture, and establish a signature culinary identity
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