Head Chef | Full-Time | Mount Gambier Hotel

Join a leading hospitality group and take the reins of a high-performing kitchen in regional South Australia.

We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead the kitchen team at the Mount Gambier Hotel, part of the Matthews Hospitality Group—a proud South Australian, family-owned business with over 80 years in hospitality.

If you’re passionate about food, thrive in a leadership role, and want to build your career in a supportive and rewarding environment, this is the opportunity for you.

✅ What’s On Offer

Full-time, permanent Head Chef position

Total package starting from $105,000

$85,000 base salary + 15% super

$2,000 group-wide discount card

Meal account included

Time off in lieu for public holidays and overtime worked

Professional development and training opportunities

Work-life balance where possible — flexibility for weekends and holidays

Staff discounts on food and beverage across all Matthews venues

Supportive leadership team and clear career pathways within a growing group

👨‍🍳 About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity for a talented Head Chef to lead all aspects of kitchen operations at a well-known and much-loved hotel in the Limestone Coast.

Oversee bistro, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and function services

Lead, train, and mentor a team of chefs, apprentices, and kitchen hands

Develop seasonal menus and daily specials

Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene standards

Manage food costings, ordering, stock control, portioning, and waste

Collaborate with venue management on service planning and business goals

Champion a positive kitchen culture

Our kitchen is proud to showcase local produce, including a fresh crayfish tank in season and strong community partnerships.

🧑‍💼 About You

To be successful in this role, you will need:

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent)

Minimum 2 years' experience as a Head Chef or in a senior kitchen leadership role

Proven ability to run a busy, high-quality kitchen service

Excellent communication and team management skills

Strong planning, organisation, and time management abilities

A calm and hands-on leadership style with a passion for developing others

Experience using kitchen management software and tools for rostering and ordering

👉 How to Apply

If you're ready to take your next big step as a Head Chef, apply now online with your resume and a short cover letter.

Only applicants with full working rights in Australia and residing in South Australia will be considered.

📍 Location

Mount Gambier, SA 5290 — a vibrant regional hub offering great lifestyle benefits, nature, food, and wine culture.