Location: Phillip Island, Victoria (Penguin Parade Visitors Centre)

Reporting To: Venue Operations Manager – Penguin Parade Visitors Centre

Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience

Create Catering is seeking an exceptional and commercially astute Head Chef to lead the culinary operations at the multi-site Penguin Parade Visitors Centre. You will be the driving force behind the kitchens for our high-volume outlets, including the Shearwater Restaurant & Bar, Chicks Café, and dedicated event spaces.

This role demands a creative, hands-on leader who can maintain the highest standards of food quality and consistency while strategically managing BOH finances and ensuring operational efficiency. You will be responsible for the overall culinary performance of the venue.

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  Culinary Leadership & Menu Execution: Lead and oversee the day-to-day operations of all kitchen outlets. Develop and execute seasonal menus, ensuring consistency and quality across the restaurant, café, and events.

  
  

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  Financial Management: Take ownership of BOH finances, specifically managing and maintaining Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) % vs target. Implement stringent cost control and inventory procedures, and actively track and mitigate waste.

  
  

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  Team Development: Lead, inspire, and mentor a high-performing back-of-house team, including managing recruitment, training, and fostering a positive BOH culture.

  
  

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  Compliance & Safety: Ensure strict compliance with all relevant food safety regulations (FSS, logs, plan adherence) , Workplace Health & Safety (WH&S) protocols , and hold relevant industry certifications.

  
  

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  Operational Support: Maintain a hands-on presence on the floor, supporting all food production during peak service periods to ensure smooth and efficient operation.

  
  

• Extensive experience as a Head Chef or similar culinary leadership role in a multi-site or high-volume hospitality environment.

  
  

• Proven track record of managing large kitchen teams, food budgets, and key supplier relationships.

• Experience with function dining and execution, with a focus on groups larger than 100PAX

  
  

• Relevant advanced industry certifications (e.g., food safety) are essential.

  
  

• Exceptional culinary skills, combined with strong leadership, financial acumen (especially cost control), and problem-solving abilities.

  
  

• Strong communication and team management abilities.

  
  

• A proactive, results-driven individual committed to food consistency, quality, and outstanding guest experience.

  
  

• Adaptable and resilient, thriving in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.

  
  

If you are a talented Head Chef ready to take on a high-profile, strategic role at a dynamic, multi-site venue, apply now!