Head Chef in Kilmore

Heritage & Co Hotel Group is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our culinary operations at our Kilmore, VIC location. This is a full-time position that offers the opportunity to showcase your expertise and creativity whilst managing a dynamic kitchen team. As Head Chef, you will be at the heart of our hospitality offering, responsible for delivering exceptional dining experiences that reflect our commitment to quality and innovation. This role is pivotal in maintaining our culinary standards and driving the gastronomic vision of the hotel.

Key responsibilities:

• Plan, develop and execute innovative menus that reflect seasonal produce and culinary trends whilst maintaining consistency with Heritage & Co Hotel Group's standards.
• Manage all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating and presentation to ensure dishes meet our quality benchmarks.
• Lead, train, mentor and supervise kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and professional working environment.
• Maintain strict adherence to health, safety and food hygiene standards, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Control food costs, manage inventory and order supplies efficiently whilst maintaining quality standards.
• Coordinate with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service delivery and guest satisfaction.
• Implement and maintain kitchen systems, procedures and best practices to optimise efficiency and productivity.
• Monitor food wastage and implement sustainability initiatives within the kitchen.
• Contribute to the development of special menus for events, functions and seasonal promotions.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure proper maintenance schedules are adhered to.

What we're looking for:

• Minimum 5+ years' professional cooking experience, with at least 2-3 years in a head chef or senior chef de partie role.
• Proven culinary expertise with the ability to demonstrate strong technical skills across a range of cooking methods and cuisines.
• Food Safety Supervisor certification or equivalent qualification (or willingness to obtain).
• Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire and develop kitchen teams.
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities, particularly during high-volume service periods.
• Sound knowledge of food costing, budgeting and inventory management.
• Passionate about quality, presentation and culinary innovation.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with all departments.
• Current understanding of Australian health and safety food standards.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends and public holidays as required by hospitality operations.

What we offer:

• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and culinary training.
• Staff meals and hospitality discounts.
• A supportive team environment that encourages culinary innovation.
• Flexible rostering arrangements where possible to support work-life balance.

About us:

Heritage & Co Hotel Group is a respected hospitality business dedicated to delivering memorable guest experiences through exceptional service and outstanding dining. With a focus on celebrating local heritage and culinary excellence, we are committed to creating warm, welcoming spaces where guests feel valued. Our team is passionate about hospitality and takes pride in every aspect of the guest journey. We believe that great food, delivered with care and professionalism, is central to creating lasting impressions and building loyal guests within our community.