Head Chef

The Flying Fox Public House, a quintessential locals pub open seven days a week on Bridge Road. 

We’re looking for an experienced and ambitious Head Chef to take ownership of our kitchen and lead our team.

This is a genuine leadership role for a chef who has proven experience as a Head Chef and knows how to run a busy kitchen, lead a team and deliver consistently excellent food.

The Role

As Head Chef, you’ll be responsible for the overall operation and performance of the kitchen, working closely with our venue leadership and Executive Chef, Nathan Babos.

You’ll have ownership across:

• Leading and developing the kitchen team

• Menu development and seasonal menu changes in collaboration with our Exec Chef

• Maintaining consistently high food quality and presentation

• Running organised, efficient and profitable services

• Food costing, GP management and portion control

• Ordering, stock management and supplier relationships

• Kitchen rostering and labour management

• Minimising waste and maintaining strong kitchen systems

• Food safety, allergen management and OH&S compliance

• Training and developing junior chefs

• Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organisation

• Working closely with FOH to deliver an exceptional guest experience

• Creating a positive, professional and accountable kitchen culture

The Food

The Flying Fox is a British-inspired venue with a Melbourne edge.

Our food takes inspiration from British and European pub classics, using quality Australian produce and seasonal ingredients.

About You

Proven experience as a Head Chef is essential.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a strong track record as a Head Chef in a busy pub, restaurant or similar hospitality venue

• Is confident managing a kitchen team and leading from the front

• Has strong knowledge of food costing, GP and kitchen profitability

• Can confidently manage a busy service while maintaining standards

• Has excellent menu development and execution skills

• Is highly organised and understands the importance of kitchen systems

• Builds strong relationships with suppliers and the wider venue team

• Takes pride in presentation, consistency and quality

• Is a strong communicator and natural leader

• Is calm under pressure and solutions-focused

• Has a genuine passion for hospitality

• Isn’t afraid to get stuck in and work alongside the team

We’re not looking for someone who simply wants to run the pass. We want a leader who will take ownership of the kitchen and make it their own.

What’s on Offer?:

• Full-time permanent position

• Genuine autonomy and creative input

• Opportunity to collaborate, shape and develop the menu

• Support from an experienced hospitality leadership team

• Opportunity for career progression within The Back Bar Group

• Staff benefits and discounts

• A newly established venue with plenty of room to grow

• A strong focus on team culture and development
  

About The Flying Fox

The Flying Fox Public House is a 120-seat Richmond pub, our downstairs front bar is lively, relaxed and unapologetically pub – with sport, pool and a proper local atmosphere.

Upstairs, our bistro offers a more food-led experience with full table service, exposed brick, banquette seating and its own bar.

We’re part of The Back Bar Group, an independent Melbourne hospitality group focused on creating distinctive, high-quality venues with strong local followings.

Ready to take the reins?

If you’re an experienced Head Chef looking for your next opportunity and want the chance to genuinely influence a venue’s food, culture and success we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now with your CV and a short cover letter outlining your Head Chef experience and why you’d be a great fit for The Flying Fox.

Please note: Proven experience in a Head Chef role is essential for this position. You will also have rights to work in Australia, we are not offering sponsorship.