The Role of a Leader in Food Operations
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to join our team as a Kitchen Operations Manager at our Adelaide facility.
Reporting directly to the Facility Director, this full-time, permanent role is responsible for leading a small team in managing the site food service functions.
A key success factor in this critical leadership position is building and maintaining high-trust, respectful, and professional relationships with colleagues and support teams.
As the Kitchen Operations Manager, you will deeply connect with our residents, actively seeking feedback to improve our food and nutritional services.
Key Responsibilities
* Ensure the daily delivery of high-quality meals on time.
* Lead and coach kitchen teams in workplace safety protocols.
* Participate in our Chef Community, sharing culinary creations and catering for events.
* Manage procurement, stocktakes, and equipment maintenance processes.
* Attend regular management meetings with other department heads.
* Be receptive to customer feedback, respectful, and an active listener.
* Ensure all operations meet external food safety audits and regulatory standards.
* Collaborate with our Regional Chef support network to improve and develop new food services.
* Partner with education providers to facilitate student placements in the kitchen.
This role involves physical tasks such as bending, squatting, lifting, and pushing items. It is essential that you can perform these tasks safely without risk of injury to yourself, colleagues, or residents.
Who are we looking for?
* A minimum of 5 years' experience in commercial kitchens.
* Proven leadership experience in managing kitchen teams.
* A natural people person who fosters a safe, fun, and learning-oriented culture.
* Excellent communication skills and stakeholder engagement.
* Open to feedback and committed to continuous development.
* A positive, approachable leader who collaborates with operational teams.
* Willing to attend training and upskilling sessions.
* Qualifications: Certificate III or higher in Commercial Cookery and a valid Food Safety Supervisors certificate.
* Ability to adapt menus creatively for residents.
* Experience in aged care or health sectors is advantageous.