The Role 

The renowned Spicers Vineyard Estate is on the hunt for its next Head Chef for the reopening of Restaurant Botanica.

As we prepare to unveil a stunning transformation, our beloved Restaurant Botanica is undergoing a full refurbishment and will reopen in the coming weeks with a fresh new look, elevated dining concept, and state-of-the-art kitchen.

This is a great opportunity to lead a passionate culinary team in one of the Hunter Valley’s most iconic luxury destinations. If you're ready to shape the next chapter of Botanica’s story and bring bold, seasonal, and locally inspired cuisine to life - we’d love to hear from you.

About Spicers Vineyard Estate

In the heart of Pokolbin, Spicers Vineyards Estate is an intimate escape for food and wine lovers. Nestled on its own private, four-acre vineyard, the estate is the Hunter’s finest example of seclusion and privacy in a luxury setting. Set within the estate, Restaurant Botanica showcases Australian-grown ingredients and utilises classic and modern French techniques.

The role and key duties

• Deliver all food experiences for the property including: restaurant dining; weddings, events and experiential dining opportunities;

• Lead by example to ensure the overall guest experience exceeds expectations;

• Coach and mentor to all kitchen team in order to provide a quality and profitable dining experience that is in line with the vision of the restaurant;

• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment. Provide direction and support to ensure consistent food quality and presentation.

• Oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency, cleanliness, and adherence to health and safety standards. Manage inventory, order supplies, and maintain kitchen equipment.

• Design and implement creative, high-quality menus that reflect the hotel's unique blend of heritage and modern cuisine, catering to diverse guest preferences and dietary requirements.

• Be a key role in enhancing the overall F&B journey and experience for our guests;

• Manage the kitchen budget, control costs, and optimise profitability while maintaining high standards of food quality and service; 

• Drive continuous improvements that support profit and reputation growth;

• Explore new F&B opportunities for the venues alongside the General Manager and Restaurant Manager;

• Be a key member of the management team and work closely with the General Manager to ensure the overall success of your team and the Hotel. 

Essential criteria required to be considered

• Previous experience in a Head Chef from a high end, a la carte dining environment;

• Experience in designing creative, innovative and award-winning menus;

• A solid knowledge of the current local market and trends with a proven track record in sourcing and producing the highest quality of food;

• Passionate about using locally and ethically sourced produce and ingredients;

• Experience in leading and motivating a high performing kitchen team with a commitment to their training and development;

• A strong level of financial acumen associated with budget preparation and cost of goods/stocktake;

• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills;

• Located close to our restaurant or a willingness to relocate; 

• A passion for people, food and wine; 

• Reliable car and drivers license.

Salter Brothers Hospitality Benefits  

• Huge range of discounts across our entire portfolio of luxury hotels and retreats including accommodation, F&B and Spa discounts;

• Friends and family discounts;

• Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP);

• Caring and progressive culture where all team members are celebrated & recognised regularly;

• Opportunities for career development and mobility across our 20+ Australian properties (and growing!).   

To apply online please click on the apply button below.

Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please reach out to Emma Martin our Director of Talent Acquisition on emma.martin@salterbrothershospitality.com