Head of Culinary & Dining Experience

Queen Victoria Care (QVC) is seeking an accomplished and values‑driven

Head of Culinary & Dining Experience

to lead and transform our food and dining services.

This is a leadership role for an experienced culinary professional who understands that food in aged care is about dignity, choice, connection and joy… not just nutrition.

You will be highly visible, resident‑focused and accountable for delivering a safe, high‑quality, contemporary dining experience across the organisation.

The Role As Head of Culinary & Dining Experience, you will have full responsibility for the leadership, performance and compliance of QVC's kitchen and dining services. You will lead and mentor the culinary team, work closely with care and leadership colleagues, and actively engage with residents to ensure their voices shape menus, service and daily dining experiences.

This role requires strong operational discipline, hands‑on leadership, and absolute clarity around food safety, systems and standards.

Key Responsibilities Culinary & Operational Leadership Lead all aspects of kitchen and dining operations, including menu planning, food preparation, service delivery and staff supervision.

Set clear expectations for quality, consistency, presentation and professionalism.

Mentor, train and support the culinary team to continuously lift standards and capability.

Resident‑Centred Dining Design and deliver seasonal, nutritious, high‑quality menus that meet diverse dietary needs, cultural preferences and clinical requirements.

Lead a resident‑centred ordering process, including 1‑on‑1 ordering to maximise choice, engagement and satisfaction.

Be visible and present — engaging with residents daily, listening to feedback and responding meaningfully.

Food Safety, Compliance & Systems Ensure full compliance with QVC's Food Safety Program and all regulatory requirements.

Maintain daily oversight of HACCP documentation, temperature monitoring, traceability records and corrective actions.

Lead continuous review and improvement of food safety, hygiene and kitchen practices.

Use systems (digital menu management system) to accurately manage menus, allergens, dietary needs and resident preferences.

Work closely with care, hospitality and leadership teams to integrate dining into the broader resident experience.

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance quality, efficiency and resident outcomes.

Manage menu costing, inventory control and waste reduction responsibly.

What We're Looking For Demonstrated experience in a senior culinary leadership role (Head Chef).

Minimum 3–4 years of senior culinary leadership experience required.

Experience in aged care, healthcare, hospitality or a similarly regulated environment.

Formal culinary training and a sound understanding of nutrition and special dietary requirements.

Acceptable qualifications include Certificate III Commercial Cookery, Certificate IV Kitchen Management, Diploma Hospitality Management, or trade qualification.

Strong working knowledge of food safety systems, HACCP and compliance obligations.

Proven leadership skills with the ability to set standards, hold accountability and build a positive team culture.

Confidence using digital systems for menu management and documentation.

Australian citizenship or permanent residency required.

Highly Valued A passion for fresh, seasonal, locally sourced produce.

A genuine belief that food plays a critical role in wellbeing, dignity and connection.

A solutions‑focused mindset and a willingness to bring ideas and lead change.

Our Culture – Who Will Thrive at QVC You will thrive at Queen Victoria Care if you:

Lead with respect, kindness and professionalism.

Take pride in consistency, presentation and attention to detail.

Are comfortable being visible and engaged with residents and teams.

Value collaboration and shared accountability.

Believe excellence in food service is fundamental to quality aged care.

What We Offer Competitive salary aligned to senior responsibility.

Ongoing professional development and training.

Flexible work arrangements to support work‑life balance.

Employee wellness programs and discounted healthcare services.

About Queen Victoria Care Queen Victoria Care is committed to delivering exceptional, person‑centred care in a warm, inclusive and forward‑thinking environment. We continuously invest in quality, innovation and people to enrich the lives of our residents.

If you are a strong culinary leader ready to redefine dining in aged care, we invite you to apply.

Questions for Applicants Your application will include the following questions:

Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?

How many years' experience do you have in a Culinary Role?

Which of the following culinary arts qualifications have you obtained?

Do you hold a current Food Safety certificate?

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