The Chef Manager is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of food services across the organisation. This role ensures the delivery of safe, nutritious, person-centred meals that meet the diverse dietary, cultural, and clinical needs of residents. This hands-on leadership role is suited to someone who values teamwork, quality improvement, innovation, and creating positive dining experiences that enhance resident wellbeing and satisfaction.

Key responsibilities

Lead kitchen, café, and food service operations across the organisation

Ensure compliance with food safety legislation, infection prevention and control standards, and organisational policies

Oversee food safety systems, documentation, audits, incident management, and continuous improvement activities

Support audit readiness, accreditation processes, and quality improvement initiatives

Lead the development, implementation, and review of menus in collaboration with the Clinical Manager and Dietician

Ensure menus meet nutritional, therapeutic, cultural, religious, and clinical requirements

Oversee the implementation of the IDDSI framework for texture-modified diets and thickened fluids

Lead, mentor, and support Chefs, Food Service Attendants (FSA) and Café staff

Oversee daily kitchen operations to ensure timely, consistent, and high-quality meal service

Monitor budgets, food costs, stock control, waste reduction, and resource utilisation

About you

Trade qualification in Commercial Cookery (Certificate IV or higher)

Current Food Safety Supervisor certification





Extensive experience as a Chef as well as minimum experience of 5 years as a Chef Manager within aged care, healthcare, disability, or similar regulated environments

Demonstrated experience managing large-scale food services operations

Strong understanding of food safety legislation, infection prevention and control, and the IDDSI framework

Experience in menu planning for diverse dietary and clinical needs

Experience leading teams, including workforce development and performance management

Strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills

Confidence using digital systems for documentation and communication

Full working rights in Australia

About us

John Curtin Aged Care is a community-focused, not-for-profit aged care facility committed to delivering compassionate, person-centred care in a warm and supportive environment. Located in the heart of Creswick, our 65-bed facility includes our Peacock Wing, a specialised 18-bed Memory Care Unit, where we support residents living with dementia with dignity, respect, and understanding.

4 weeks annual leave to support work-life balance

Salary packaging up to $15,900 plus additional meals and entertainment benefits

Novated leasing options available

Staff discounts and delicious barista-made coffee at our onsite "Curtin Café"

Located in Creswick, just 15 minutes from the Ballarat CBD & 1.5 hours from Melbourne

Ongoing career development and leadership support

A welcoming and supportive team culture where people genuinely care

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📌 Chef Manager (Creswick)
🏢 John Curtin Aged Care
📍 Creswick