Leading quality, nutritious dining experiences for older Tasmanians At Southern Cross Care Tasmania, we are more than an aged care provider — we are a values-driven, not-for-profit organisation committed to supporting older Tasmanians to live with dignity, comfort and wellbeing. We are currently seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our Catering and Hospitality team at George Town, playing a pivotal role in delivering high-quality, nutritious and culturally appropriate meals to our residents each day. About the Role As the Head Chef, you will provide leadership and operational oversight of the catering service at our George Town site. This role has a high level of autonomy and responsibility, with a strong focus on food safety compliance, menu development, cost control and team leadership. Reporting to the Facility Manager, you will lead and support the catering team to ensure meals are prepared, presented and delivered to a consistently high standard, while meeting resident needs, accreditation requirements and organisational expectations. Key Responsibilities You will: Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the catering team to ensure timely, high-quality meal delivery. Oversee food preparation, cooking and presentation in line with approved menus, recipes and dietary requirements. Develop, implement and maintain a fully integrated food safety and hygiene system, ensuring compliance with accreditation standards and relevant legislation. Plan, develop and cost menus that meet resident preferences, cultural and therapeutic dietary needs, seasonal requirements and budget constraints. Monitor food quality, presentation standards, stock control and ordering, wastage and expenses, completing monthly stocktakes and wastage reports. Liaise with suppliers to source cost-effective, high-quality and seasonal products. Lead, supervise and support catering staff, including workforce planning, performance management, training and development. Foster a positive, safe and inclusive team environment that promotes efficiency, wellbeing and continuous improvement. Engage with residents and families, responding promptly and professionally to feedback or concerns regarding catering services. Maintain accurate records and prepare reports for management as required. Ensure adherence to Southern Cross Care values, WHS obligations and aged care best practice standards. About You You are an experienced and motivated Head Chef who takes pride in delivering exceptional food services and understands the vital role nutrition plays in enhancing the quality of life for older people. You are organised, approachable and confident in leading teams, with a strong commitment to safety, quality, resident-centred care, continuous improvement, and compliance with the Aged Care Quality Standards. You will bring: Trade Qualification as a Chef. A minimum of 4 years’ experience in a similar senior or Head Chef role. Demonstrated experience in production kitchens, including menu planning, stock control and cost management. Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards, accreditation requirements and relevant legislation. Experience delivering therapeutic, culturally appropriate diets within budget. Proven ability to lead, coordinate and develop catering staff. Empathy and understanding of the needs, rights and dignity of aged care residents. Flexibility, initiative and a commitment to continuous improvement. Desirable Experience working within the aged care sector. Knowledge of Southern Cross Care Tasmania policies, procedures and WHS practices. What’s On Offer Competitive salary Salary packaging up to $18,900 per FBT year Free on-site parking Relocation assistance (if applicable) Reward & Recognition Program Employee Assistance Program Purchased leave options Ongoing training and professional development Discounted private health insurance Corporate discounts with a wide range of retailers and brands About Us When you choose Southern Cross Care Tasmania, you are choosing a team passionate about people and quality of life. For over 50 years, we have been supporting our community across Tasmania through residential aged care, lifestyle villages and in-home services. We take a holistic, person-centred approach, delivered by skilled and compassionate people who respect individual needs, preferences and dignity. How to Apply To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining how your skills, experience and leadership capabilities meet the key responsibilities and selection criteria of the role .
