Head Chef – Rumour Has It
Location: Hawthorn East / Camberwell | Full-Time

Are you a culinary leader ready to bring restaurant-quality food into a vibrant café setting?

We’re on the lookout for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to join the team at Rumour Has It, as we prepare to launch an exciting new chapter. This is your chance to shape the future of our kitchen and be part of a creative, supportive, and forward-thinking crew.

At Rumour Has It, we believe truly good food should be vibrant, delicious, and nourishing. We’re energised by food that looks beautiful, tastes incredible, and leaves you feeling good from the inside out.

Why Join Us?

Work-Life Balance – Consistent hours and a team that values your wellbeing

Stability & Growth – Long-term role with real career progression

Employee Perks – Undercover on-site parking, staff discounts across venues

Supportive Culture – Join a business that fosters development, creativity and connection

Be Part of the Journey – We’re working on a brand-new offering. Join now and grow with us

At Rumour Has It, we like to have fun, and we take pride in seeing everyone grow and thrive. You’ll be supported by a strong management team and given access to training, development and future opportunities across the group.

About the Role

As Head Chef, you’ll work closely with the owner and venue manager to lead the kitchen with clarity, consistency, and creativity. Your role will be hands-on and autonomous, with support where you need it and the freedom to make it your own.

Key responsibilities include:

Designing and costing creative, seasonal menus with a focus on quality and produce

Developing standard recipes and instructing the team on correct preparation and cooking techniques

Leading, mentoring and managing a close-knit kitchen team, including rostering and training

Maintaining high standards across food quality, presentation and consistency

Managing kitchen operations, cleanliness, hygiene, and compliance with OH&S and food safety standards

Monitoring inventory, labour costs and supplier relationships

Running efficient changeovers, closedowns and handovers

Keeping the kitchen running calmly and smoothly during busy services

About You

You’re values-driven, resilient and passionate about food and people. You take pride in your attention to detail, enjoy leading by example, and remain composed under pressure.

We’re looking for someone who can:

Communicate clearly, honestly and respectfully

Build and maintain strong, positive working relationships

Work autonomously while inspiring and leading a team

Bring a genuine interest in day-to-day operations and kitchen systems

Keep a calm, solutions-focused mindset in a fast-paced environment

Demonstrate a deep understanding of food safety, hygiene and OH&S compliance

Maintain consistency in setup, service, and kitchen changeovers

Must-haves:

Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment

A love for seasonal produce and local suppliers

Cert III in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent hands-on experience)

Strong kitchen and cost management capabilities

Full Australian working rights

Competency with kitchen software for ordering, stocktake and planning

How to Apply

If this sounds like the right fit and you’re ready to step into something exciting, we’d love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and cover letter to [email protected] or click “Apply” to get started.
Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Application Questions:

What best describes your right to work in Australia?

How many years’ experience do you have as a Head Chef?

What relevant culinary qualifications do you hold?