The iconic Esplanade Hotel (The Espy) is one of St Kilda’s best-known venues, with a long history as a Melbourne live music and hospitality institution. Sitting right on the St Kilda foreshore, The Espy brings together multiple bars, dining spaces, live entertainment and a high-volume kitchen operation that comes alive across weekends, events and the warmer months. We’re looking for an experienced Sous Chef to join the kitchen leadership team and help run day-to-day kitchen operations across a busy, seasonal venue.

This is a role for someone who is confident leading a team, knows how to keep a kitchen moving during a big service and can stay calm, focused and professional when the pressure is on. What you’ll be doing - Take a hands-on leadership role across day-to-day kitchen operations - Lead and support the kitchen team through busy, high-volume services - Keep service organised, efficient and consistent, particularly during peak periods - Maintain high standards of food preparation, quality, presentation and food safety - Make quick, practical decisions when service becomes challenging - Communicate clearly and positively with the kitchen and wider venue team - Support the development of junior chefs and help build a positive kitchen culture - Manage kitchen organisation,



stock control and preparation - Adapt kitchen operations and staffing to seasonal demand and changing trade - Work closely with the Head Chef to maintain standards and deliver a consistent operation What we’re looking for We’re looking for a calm, capable and experienced Sous Chef who is comfortable taking ownership of a busy kitchen. You’ll bring:

- Previous experience as a Sous Chef or in a senior kitchen leadership role - Strong knowledge of kitchen operations and food safety - The ability to remain calm, focused and qualified under pressure - Confidence leading a team in a high-volume environment - Strong communication and people-management skills - A practical, hands-on approach to service - Excellent organisation and attention to detail - A genuine interest in developing junior chefs and creating a positive kitchen culture - The ability to adapt to a seasonal, fast-paced venue - Access to 250+ venues across Australia with generous staff discounts - Career progression and development opportunities across AVC - Opportunities to relocate or move between venues as your career develops - A supportive team environment with experienced hospitality leaders - Be part of one of Melbourne’s most iconic hospitality and live entertainment venues

📌 Sous Chef | Esplanade Hotel (Ballarat)
🏢 Australian Venue
📍 Ballarat