As head chef, use local produce and engage with producers
Lead, mentor, and inspire the team
Gain media recognition and promotion

Relocate to Newcastle, NSW!

Modern. Produce-Driven. Career-Defining.

We’re exclusively partnered with a leading Newcastle hospitality group to find a rare culinary leader—a head chef to shape a modern, produce-driven kitchen.

This is not your average venue. It’s a purpose-built restaurant with strong systems, a beautiful kitchen, and a team that prioritises quality, collaboration, and consistency. Whether you’re a Senior Sous ready to step up or a current Head Chef seeking the right environment to grow your brand, this is the opportunity to make your mark — with full support from experienced operators who understand how to run a restaurant properly.

Why This Role Stands Out

Creative Ownership, with Structure Behind You

This is your kitchen to lead — with the freedom to develop your own food identity. You’ll have full input on menu direction, supplier relationships, and team leadership, while still benefiting from solid operational support and business mentorship.

Professional Systems and Smart Support

This isn’t a solo role or an under-resourced venue. You’ll have a skilled team and solid systems supporting everything from ordering and costing to labour and compliance.

Room to Grow and Build Your Brand

Once you’ve embedded into the business and delivered on consistency, the venue will get behind you with PR and marketing support — helping build your profile as one of Newcastle’s key food figures.

Your Focus in the First 6–12 Months

Menu Development and Culinary Identity

Create a seasonal menu that reflects your style and highlights the region’s best produce
Build consistency across à la carte and group dining formats
Collaborate with trusted suppliers to source and showcase premium ingredients

Leadership and Kitchen Culture

Lead, mentor, and support a team of chefs, apprentices, and sous leaders
Foster a positive, high-performance culture focused on growth and consistency
Build a team that’s proud of what they deliver — and how they deliver it

About The Venue

Located in Newcastle in a premium, food-savvy neighbourhood, this architecturally designed restaurant is a flagship site

A fully equipped kitchen designed for service flow and chef experience, with every step from prep to pass running seamlessly.

What’s On Offer

Salary up to $120,000 + Super, depending on experience
Relocation assistance for interstate candidates
Two weeks’ temporary accommodation provided
Access to excellent suppliers and group-wide operational tools
Future marketing support to help build your brand as Head Chef
Strong leadership support from a values-driven and experienced team

Who This Role Suits

A Senior Sous or existing Head Chef with strong experience in modern produce-led cuisine
Confident in leading teams and running a kitchen, but open to mentoring and growth on the commercial side
Passionate about hospitality, detail-focused, and calm under pressure
Excited by the idea of shaping a menu and a team in a venue that truly values food and people
Professional, well-organised, and motivated by the long game

Confidential discussions are welcome. Apply now to take your place in one of Newcastle’s most respected kitchens.

Do you like being up to date on the latest job openings, interesting industry news, and most importantly, the current pay rates? Stay ahead in your career by connecting with one of Australia’s leading hospitality recruitment agencies. Visit our website placedrecruitment.com.au or check our social media Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to never miss an opportunity.

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