Chef Manager - Lavington

Chef Manager for Lavington 

Full Time - Monday to Friday - 76 hours per fortnight

Shape meaningful dining experiences that support wellbeing, dignity and choice

At SCC, food is more than nutrition it is a central part of a resident’s day and an important contributor to comfort, connection and quality of life. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Chef Manager to lead catering operations within our Residential Aged Care Home and deliver safe, nutritious and enjoyable meals that reflect individual preferences and dietary needs.

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for someone who combines strong culinary expertise with operational excellence, team leadership and a genuine commitment to person-centered care.

The Role

As Chef Manager, you will lead the day-to-day operation of the site kitchen and catering team, ensuring meals are delivered safely, efficiently and to a consistently high standard. Working closely with care and clinical teams, you will help create positive dining experiences that support resident wellbeing and family confidence.

Reporting to the Residential Manager and supported by Regional Catering Operations and the Head of Hospitality, you will play a key role in maintaining compliance, managing budgets and fostering a positive kitchen culture.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and delivery of high-quality meals that meet resident preferences and dietary needs

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including rostering, stock control and food safety compliance

• Lead, coach and support the catering team to maintain high service standards

• Work collaboratively with care and clinical teams to support resident wellbeing

• Engage with residents to gather feedback and continuously improve the dining experience

• Manage food and labour costs while minimising waste and maintaining operational efficiency

About you

You are a compassionate and organised hospitality leader who enjoys building strong teams and creating positive resident experiences.

Essential

• Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery

• Minimum 3 years’ experience managing a commercial kitchen

• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and HACCP requirements

• Experience managing food and labour costs

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Desirable

• Experience in aged care, healthcare or other large-scale catering environments

• Experience working within regulated or compliance-focused settings

About Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT)

At SCC (NSW & ACT), people are at the heart of everything we do!  We are a purpose-led, not-for-profit organisation empowering older people to ‘live life to the full’. We have a passion for providing the best care with clinical excellence and offer person-centred care services to meet individual needs and preferences in residential aged care, retirement living and in-home care.

Join us at SCC (NSW & ACT), where your work is not just a job, but a journey filled with meaningful moments to make a tangible difference in the lives of those we support. Our commitment to your development is unwavering, and we work hard to ensure you are given ample opportunities to continually learn and grow.

SCC is an equal opportunity employer.  Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, where employees feel valued and heard in a safe and respectful workplace, is a priority. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need. We welcome people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island identity, as well as people of culturally diverse backgrounds, to apply.