Executive Chef – In Forno
Hamilton, Newcastle NSW
In Forno is seeking an experienced and passionate Executive Chef to lead our growing culinary team.
This is an opportunity for a chef who wants to take ownership of a well-established and highly regarded restaurant while helping shape the future direction of the business. We are looking for a strong leader who can inspire a team, maintain exceptional standards, and drive consistency across all areas of kitchen operations.
About Us
In Forno is a busy Italian restaurant known for woodfired pizza, handmade pasta, quality ingredients, and warm hospitality. We currently have two existing venues, soon to be three. We pride ourselves on delivering a consistently excellent guest experience while maintaining a positive and supportive workplace culture.
The Role
As Executive Chef, you will be responsible for the overall management and performance of the kitchen, including:
- Leading and mentoring a team of chefs and kitchen staff
- Maintaining exceptional food quality and consistency
- Managing kitchen labour and rostering
- Menu development and seasonal specials
- Food cost control and stock management
- Supplier relationships and purchasing
- Ensuring compliance with food safety standards and regulations
- Recruitment, training, and development of kitchen staff
- Driving a positive, accountable, and professional kitchen culture
- Working closely with venue management to achieve business goals
About You
The successful applicant will possess:
- Previous experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Senior Sous Chef ready to step up
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- A proven track record in high-volume hospitality environments
- Excellent understanding of food costing and kitchen financial performance
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Experience with rostering, ordering, and inventory control
- A passion for Italian cuisine and quality ingredients
- A hands-on leadership style and willingness to lead from the front
- Current food safety qualifications
What We Offer
- Competitive salary package based on experience
- Opportunity to have genuine input into menu development
- Supportive ownership and management team
- Long-term career growth opportunities
- Staff discounts across the business
- The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on an established and growing brand
If you are an experienced chef looking for your next challenge and want to join a venue that values quality, leadership, and hospitality, we'd love to hear from you.
To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and why you believe you would be a great fit for the role.
Pay: $110,000.00 – $120,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
