Assistant Kitchen Manager

The Opportunity

Join Azabu Group, an award-winning hospitality collective inspired by Japanese craftsmanship and creativity. We’re currently seeking a Assistant Kitchen Manager to join the team at Hanasuki in Chatswood – high-energy, Japanese-inspired venues known for quality, consistency, and warm neighbourhood hospitality.

This is a hands-on role for a motivated kitchen professional who wants to step up in responsibility, support day-to-day kitchen operations, and grow into a future leadership position.

Hanasuki

Hanasuki is a Japanese hotpot restaurant in Chatswood specialising in sukiyaki and shabu-shabu. Guests enjoy cooking thinly sliced meats and fresh vegetables in rich broths at the table, creating a cosy and communal dining experience. The focus is on clean flavours, quality ingredients and thoughtful presentation. The kitchen team works with precision and care to deliver beautifully prepared broths, sauces and accompaniments every service.

About the Role

As Assistant Kitchen Manager, you will play a key role in supporting the Kitchen Manager to run a smooth, consistent and high-performing kitchen. Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading by example during service and setting the standard for quality and presentation

• Supporting day-to-day kitchen operations, including prep, service, cleanliness and station management

• Assisting with training, coaching and supervising junior kitchen team members

• Ensuring all dishes are executed to recipe, portion and brand standards

• Upholding food safety, hygiene and WHS requirements at all times

• Assisting with stock control, ordering, delivery checks and waste management

• Providing input into roster planning and helping to manage labour within budget

• Supporting menu execution and implementation of seasonal or promotional changes

• Working closely with FOH to maintain smooth communication and guest satisfaction

Skills & Qualifications:

• Has previous experience as a Chef de Partie or above (Japanese / Asian cuisine or high-volume venues highly regarded)

• Brings strong practical cooking skills and an eye for detail, flavour and presentation

• Thrives in a busy, service-driven environment and stays calm under pressure

• Understands food safety, allergen management and HACCP principles

• Shows natural leadership qualities, with the ability to support, guide and motivate others

• Communicates clearly and works collaboratively with the wider team

• Is keen to learn, grow and take on more responsibility over time

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

• Work in a popular, established venue with a loyal local following

• Opportunities to grow into more senior kitchen management roles

• Exposure to a broader group of award-winning venues across the hospitality group

• Supportive leadership team that values development, training and progression

Please Note: Applicants must have unrestricted working rights in Australia or New Zealand. Sponsorship is not available for this role.