Firedoor Restaurant jobs

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