[Hiring] Executive Chef @Compass Group

Role Description

We are seeking an exceptional Regional Executive Chef to join our leadership team. Reporting to the General Manager of Operations, you will be responsible for driving culinary excellence, innovation, and consistency across multiple sites. This is a unique opportunity to influence food strategy, mentor culinary talent, and elevate the dining experience for thousands of residents and guests.

As a passionate food leader, you will champion the ESS food philosophy, inspire teams to deliver outstanding results, and continuously explore new food trends and concepts that enhance customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and commercial performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing and implementing innovative culinary strategies aligned with our hospitality transformation vision.
• Delivering contemporary food solutions that enhance resident experience and promote engagement across village environments.
• Supporting sustainability initiatives and social responsibility programs.
• Establishing and maintaining consistent food standards, operating concepts, and culinary programs.
• Reviewing and enhancing existing Compass Group food concepts to improve quality, cost efficiency, safety, and customer choice.
• Coaching and mentoring culinary leaders to achieve operational excellence and develop future talent.
• Identifying high-potential team members and creating pathways for career development.
• Building a culture of engagement, collaboration, and accountability across multiple sites.
• Leading and inspiring teams of Executive Chefs, Head Chefs, Chefs, and Catering personnel.
• Ensuring compliance with all health, safety, food safety, and security requirements.
• Managing culinary projects, menu development initiatives, and kitchen optimisation programs.
• Driving food quality, presentation standards, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Trade qualified Chef credentials.
• Extensive leadership experience within large-scale hospitality, catering, resources, accommodation, or food service environments.
• A proven ability to lead high-performing culinary teams across multiple sites.
• Strong expertise in menu development, food innovation, and large-volume food production.
• Experience implementing allergy management and food safety systems.
• A passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong coaching, mentoring, and leadership capabilities.
• Commercial acumen with the ability to analyse financial performance, manage budgets, and improve profitability.
• Experience managing multiple venues, brands, or locations simultaneously.
• Well-developed project management and change management skills.
• The ability to influence outcomes and collaborate effectively with clients, operational leaders, and support functions.
• Strong workforce planning and labour productivity knowledge.
• Advanced computer literacy and reporting capability.

Benefits

• Roxby Downs-based leadership role with an 8/6 roster.
• Opportunity to influence culinary strategy across a significant portfolio.
• Work with an industry leader in remote hospitality services.
• Salary packaging options for flights and airport parking.
• Sponsorship opportunities available.
• Six weeks paid parental leave for primary carers.
• Flights, accommodation, meals, uniforms, and medicals provided.
• Recognition through Compass Group's annual Star Awards, celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership.

Company Description

At ESS, we believe great food creates exceptional experiences. This role offers the opportunity to shape culinary excellence across some of Australia's most unique and challenging environments while developing the next generation of culinary talent.

If you are an innovative leader with a passion for food, people, and creating memorable dining experiences, we would love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of hospitality in remote Australia.