The iconic Esplanade Hotel (The Espy) is one of St Kilda's best-known venues, with a long history as a Melbourne live music and hospitality institution. Sitting right on the St Kilda foreshore, The Espy brings together multiple bars, dining spaces, live entertainment and a high-volume kitchen operation that comes alive across weekends, events and the warmer months.
We're looking for an experienced Sous Chef to join the kitchen leadership team and help run day-to-day kitchen operations across a busy, seasonal venue.
This is a role for someone who is confident leading a team, knows how to keep a kitchen moving during a big service and can stay calm, focused and professional when the pressure is on.
What you'll be doing
- Take a hands-on leadership role across day-to-day kitchen operations
- Lead and support the kitchen team through busy, high-volume services
- Keep service organised, efficient and consistent, particularly during peak periods
- Maintain high standards of food preparation, quality, presentation and food safety
- Make quick, practical decisions when service becomes challenging
- Communicate clearly and positively with the kitchen and wider venue team
- Support the development of junior chefs and help build a positive kitchen culture
- Manage kitchen organisation, stock control and preparation
- Adapt kitchen operations and staffing to seasonal demand and changing trade
- Work closely with the Head Chef to maintain standards and deliver a consistent operation
What we're looking for
We're looking for a calm, capable and experienced Sous Chef who is comfortable taking ownership of a busy kitchen.
You'll bring:
- Previous experience as a Sous Chef or in a senior kitchen leadership role
- Strong knowledge of kitchen operations and food safety
- The ability to remain calm, focused and professional under pressure
- Confidence leading a team in a high-volume environment
- Strong communication and people-management skills
- A practical, hands-on approach to service
- Excellent organisation and attention to detail
- A genuine interest in developing junior chefs and creating a positive kitchen culture
- The ability to adapt to a seasonal, fast-paced venue
- Access to 250+ venues across Australia with generous staff discounts
- Career progression and development opportunities across AVC
- Opportunities to relocate or move between venues as your career develops
- A supportive team environment with experienced hospitality leaders
- Be part of one of Melbourne's most iconic hospitality and live entertainment venues
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Sous Chef employer: Australian Venue Co
Australian Venue Co. is an exceptional employer that values its Gaming Managers by providing a dynamic work environment across vibrant Southeast Queensland venues. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have opportunities to develop your leadership skills while enjoying a supportive culture that prioritises compliance and responsible gambling. Join us to be part of a team that celebrates success and fosters a sense of community among staff and guests alike.
