About us

HQ Group is a Melbourne-based hospitality collective that owns and operates iconic venues in Melbourne; Arbory Bar & Eatery, an all-day eatery and bar adjacent to Flinders Street Station and the Yarra River (Birrarung); Afloat, a summer-loving temporary floating restaurant and bar on the Yarra River (Birrarung); HER, an entire building dedicated to dining, drinking, art and music in the heart of the CBD and Straight Up Cocktails our ready to serve batched cocktails.

About the role

The Head Chef of Arbory will take ownership of an already established kitchen team in a fast-paced environment. You will have demonstrated experience in a leadership role, having worked in high volume kitchen environments that don’t compromise on quality or product. You will have excellent standards of operation, build relationships with suppliers and your team and collaborate and seek support from our Group Executive Chef.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership hands on with excellent skills to delegate. You promote the development and training of your kitchen team.

Administration You’re organised, familiar with back of house platforms and computer literate. You can oversee stocktakes, manage labour and cogs and be responsible for weekly rostering. You’ll also oversee kitchen recruitment, trials, onboarding and induction. Safety and compliance in your department will be a priority.

Creativity In partnership with the Group Exec Chef and your senior team, collaborate with menu changes, special events and monthly activations.

Communication Build relationships with your team, management, front of house and suppliers. Giving feedback, problem solving and sharing ideas will form part of your respectful engagement.





The X factor What sets you apart from other candidates; you’re energised by a busy service but can also motivate during the downtimes.

You’re approachable but also will seek out others if you don’t have the answers.

You’re just as excited by a great burger or sandwich as a great cut of meat.

You can have a laugh as well as knuckle down.

You’re keen to keep learning and developing.

What you can expect from us

The role works a rotating weekly roster that will include a mixture of cooking, mis en plus, admin, training and meetings.

Our venue is predominantly outside, so your office has an incredible view, sunshine and fresh air. Our chef’s uniform is informal, Arbory T shirts and apron.

You receive Time in Lieu for working public holidays, our teams are not expected to work crazy hours and we encourage a work life balance.

Training & Development Internal support and mentoring from the Group Executive Chef as well as from our Finance and People & Culture departments. Additional training to include first aid, equipment and safety compliance and leadership workshop opportunities.

Work Culture an inclusive, professional and supportive work environment. Organised group outings and an epic annual staff party.

Employee benefits A generous annual salary package including a Head Chef staff discount to enjoy with family and friends at all our venues. Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – a free & confidential wellbeing support service.

HQ Group provides equal employment chance to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type, without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, status, genetics, equal orientation, gender identity or expression.

📌 Head Chef (Melbourne)
🏢 Arbory Bar & Eatery
📍 Melbourne