Job Title

Head Chef (Food Services Lead) -Generous Package for the right applicantYDHS exists to provide quality, efficient, people-centred care for our community. Our values are Care & Compassion | Respect | Integrity | Professionalism.We''re seeking an exceptional Head Chef (Food Services Lead) to lead day-to-day Food Services across YDHSdelivering safe, consistent, high-quality meals and building a strong, professional kitchen culture.Residents come firstThe measure of success in this role is the experience of the people we serve. We want meals residents genuinely look forward to - fresh, well-cooked, consistent, and presented with care. Every plate should feel thoughtful and appetising.The roleReporting to the General Manager of Operations (GMO), you will lead the day-to-day delivery of Food Services across YDHS, ensuring safe, consistent, high-quality meals and service in line with the YDHS Food Safety Plan, relevant legislation, and HACCP principles.This is a leadership role requiring a suitably qualified Chef with strong Head Chef capability -able to run a structured, high-standard kitchen and build a positive, accountable team culture. You will work closely with and report regularly to the GMO on performance, staffing, budgeting, compliance, and improvement priorities.You will also build and deliver menus based on YDHS''s approved Aged Care meal roster, ensuring meals reflect the tastes and preferences of our residents and meet all dietary requirements.Key responsibilitiesLead the kitchen team and maintain high standards of quality, hygiene, presentation and professionalismDeliver meals that are consistent, well-cooked and thoughtfully presented, with residents'' experience as the key measureBuild and deliver menus aligned to the approved Aged Care meal roster, incorporating resident preferences and feedbackEnsure meals meet dietary and texture needs where required, without compromising quality or presentationOversee food safety systems (cleaning schedules, temperature control, storage, allergens) and ensure incident reporting when requiredManage rosters, leave coverage, delegation, coaching and performance follow-upLead ordering and stock control, minimise waste, monitor cost pressures, and maintain strong supplier coordination with GMO oversightProvide regular updates to the GMO and escalate risks promptly (food safety, equipment failure, supply disruption)Maintain accurate records and documentation for audits and operational governanceAbout youCalm, firm leadership style with a strong standard-setting presenceOrganised, practical, and reliable under pressureStrong communication and reporting habitsAble to balance compliance, efficiency and genuine resident enjoymentComfortable operating within governance frameworks and approval pathwaysEssential (must have)Cert IV Commercial Cookery and/or Cert IV Kitchen Management (or equivalent)Head Chef / Senior Chef / Kitchen Manager experience (leadership, compliance, workflow, costs)High-volume/institutional catering experienceTeam leadership experience (rostering, supervision, coaching)Strong admin capability (rosters, records, supplier coordination)Sound knowledge of food safety legislation and HACCPCurrent Victorian Driver''s LicenceDesirable: Healthcare/aged care/hospital experience; continuous improvement/waste reduction initiatives.What we offerAbove-award / premium remuneration (commensurate with experience)Leadership role with genuine influence and strong operational supportA stable, community-focused healthcare employerHow to applyApply via SEEK with your resume and a short cover letter outlining your leadership approach, high-volume catering experience, and how you deliver meals residents are proud to be served.Unlock job insightsYour application will include the following questions:Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?How many years'' experience do you have as a Service Lead?Which of the following culinary arts qualifications have you obtained?Do you have experience leading kitchen stations?Do you have experience as a chef in a high volume restaurant?Researching careers? Find all the information and tips you need on career advice. #J-18808-Ljbffr