Who we are

Ghanem Group is a pioneering, multi-award-winning, family-owned hospitality group with a 45-year legacy in Queensland and Victoria. Renowned for exceptional service and innovative design, we are committed to shaping the future of Australia’s vibrant hospitality scene. Our track record of creating unforgettable dining and event experiences in cutting-edge venues reflects our dedication to excellence and evolution in the industry.

Blackbird Melbourne

Welcome to the debut of Blackbird Bar, Dining & Events in Melbourne, an exciting expansion from our acclaimed Brisbane flagship, renowned for over a decade. Nestled at 66 Flinders Lane in Collins Place, at the vibrant intersection of Exhibition Street, our new venue promises to blend the essence of Blackbird Brisbane with Melbourne’s unique urban allure.

Opening its doors in June, Blackbird Melbourne will be a sophisticated sanctuary across three levels. Embracing a contemporary aesthetic with rich, contrasting textures and a warm, inviting ambiance, our venue invites guests into an intimate cocktail bar on street level, complete with a sunken lounge for a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

A central staircase adorned with a striking chandelier leads to a multi-story experience. Level 1 features a split-level dining room, offering both an expansive mirrored-ceiling dining space and a more secluded area with deep charcoal tones. Ascend further to discover private dining rooms and function spaces, each designed to cater to every occasion.

Join us at Blackbird Melbourne, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Collins Place.

Opportunity

We are looking for an extraordinary Head Chef to lead our vibrant team in launching Blackbird Melbourne! This role offers a rare chance to drive the creation and debut of our innovative restaurant concept, working closely with our Melbourne-born Executive Chef, Jake Nicolson.

As Head Chef, you'll drive all kitchen operations, crafting creative menus inspired by local flavors, featuring a solid fuel cooking line, dry-aged meats, exquisite seafood, and seasonal botanicals sourced from local artisans. It's a culinary adventure celebrating Victoria's dynamic food scene.

You'll play a pivotal role in planning, organising, and delivering exceptional dining experiences while nurturing a collaborative and professional kitchen team.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead kitchen setup and operations, ensuring optimal production, plating, and storage.

Develop and execute seasonal menus, highlighting local produce and paddock-to-plate dining.

Supervise kitchen staff, set up weekly rosters, and ensure the right mix of skills for each shift.

Prepare, cook, and present dishes with attention to quality and visual appeal.

Inform front-of-house staff about daily specials and any menu changes.

Experiment with recipes and suggest new ingredients to enhance the dining experience.

Monitor stock levels, order ingredients, and ensure freshness of all food items.

Uphold health, safety, and hygiene standards, maintaining compliance within the kitchen.

Recruit, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering their development and performance.

Collaborate with the on-site brewery to create beer pairings and promote local craft brews.

About You:

You will have at least 2 years of experience as a Head Chef in a similar environment, with strong leadership and culinary skills. You thrive in a fast-paced kitchen, have a passion for local ingredients, and are eager to bring your creativity to a unique venue that celebrates heritage, sustainability, and community.

Offer

Enjoy a 38-hour week with reasonable overtime, competitive pay, generous base salary plus Super.

Access discounts across all Ghanem Group venues, from heritage pubs to city hotspots.

Benefit from training, mentorship, and career progression in a company that invests in you.

Lead a dynamic kitchen team in a unique venue offering a premium, multi-level dining experience focused on excellent produce cooked over flame.

Create memorable dining experiences, boutique events, and special celebrations in this stunning venue

To learn more and apply for this exciting opportunity, submit your application today.

Please note that only candidates who have full working rights in Australia will be considered for this opportunity.

Melbourne, VIC, 3000