HEAD CHEF

Location: Kew, Melbourne | Type: Full-Time
Cuisine: Italian Classics

ABOUT THE ROLE

Puttanesca is on the lookout for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen through its exciting next chapter. With a warm Italian spirit and a focus on timeless classics, this role offers the chance to bring energy, leadership, and flavour to a much-loved local favourite.
You’ll be running a vibrant kitchen team, with full responsibility for cost control, consistency, quality and performance — and the opportunity to coach and nurture a young, enthusiastic brigade.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Design, cost and execute seasonal menus aligned with the Puttanesca brand

Lead daily kitchen operations with strong focus on service flow and presentation

Manage COGS, food quality, portion control and prep processes

Oversee labour cost and roster in line with budgets and business needs

Support and develop your team through mentoring, training and performance reviews

Ensure compliance with HACCP, food safety plans and hygiene standards

Collaborate with FOH and venue management to drive guest satisfaction

Manage ordering, stock rotation, deliveries and supplier relationships

Maintain all back-of-house documentation, SOPs and food safety logs

Champion a positive kitchen culture through clear communication and accountability

ABOUT YOU

You’re a hands-on, quality-driven Head Chef with a love for Italian food and leading a team with care and purpose.

✅ Minimum 2 years' experience as a Head or Senior Sous Chef in a similar venue
✅ Deep knowledge of Italian cuisine — especially pizza making, dough proofing and stretching
✅ Confident in cost control, ordering, labour management and supplier negotiation
✅ A calm, clear and communicative leader who can build trust and ownership in the team
✅ Skilled in training, mentoring and supporting a young, energetic brigade
✅ Solid understanding of HACCP, FCP and food safety requirements
✅ Experience using platforms such as Employment Hero for timesheets and rostering

Sound like you?
Apply now or get in touch at [email protected]
Help us bring back the warm embrace of real Italian hospitality in the heart of Kew.