Relief Cook & Community Manager - VIC

Bring your leadership and cooking skills to a role with purpose—support vibrant over 55s communities across the wider Melbourne territories – Geelong, Warrnambool, Ballarat, Melton, and Carrum Downs.

About Us

Ingenia Gardens is a network of over 55s retirement communities across Australia, offering low-maintenance rental accommodation and a range of services to support independent living. We focus on creating a welcoming and social atmosphere for our residents, with features like community centres, and planned activities. We also offer optional services like meal plans and support programs that help residents maintain their independence, health and well-being.

About the Role

We are seeking a flexible and experienced Relief Cook/ Community Manager to support our communities during periods of annual and personal leave, or when additional site assistance is needed. This unique dual-role is ideal for someone with a strong background in cooking within a commercial or community based setting, who also brings leadership and management experience in hospitality, or residential services (preferred but not essential). You will play a vital role in ensuring our residents receive the best possible service—whether that's by managing day-to-day operations of the community or stepping into the kitchen to deliver high-quality, nutritious meals.

Key Responsibilities

Community Operations

• Oversee the daily operations of the community including resident requests, staff management, site presentation, and compliance
• Maintain occupancy levels through proactive engagement and resident satisfaction
• Manage contractors, conduct site inspections, and ensure a high standard of cleanliness and safety
• Foster a warm, supportive community culture

Cooking Relief

• Prepare and serve meals in line with dietary standards and food safety regulations
• Maintain high levels of hygiene, sanitation, and kitchen compliance (HACCP knowledge preferred but not essential)
• Manage food stock, reduce waste, and act as Food Safety Supervisor when required
• Support the overall resident experience by ensuring meals are nutritious, timely, and well presented

What You’ll Bring

• An interest or passion for cooking and food preparation
• Knowledge and experience of using systems (IT) and processes
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing site operations
• The ability to multitask and problem solve using a diplomatic approach
• Excellent communication and time-management skills
• Willingness and flexibility to travel across multiple Ingenia Gardens sites (Accommodation and travel allowance offered)

Qualifications & Requirements

• Food Safety Supervisor Accreditation (or willingness to obtain)
• First Aid Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
• National Police Check
• Valid Driver’s Licence

Why Join Ingenia?

• Be part of a purpose-driven organisation that values resident wellbeing
• Enjoy a role that combines operational leadership with hands-on hospitality
• Work in welcoming communities that foster connection and independence
• Receive support, training, and career development within a national network

Our Benefits

• Accommodation and travel allowances may be provided for extended or excessive travel requirements
• Employee rewards and recognition program
• Discounted accommodation rates at all Ingenia holiday parks
• Free Employee Assistance and Professional Development Programs;
• Superb employer funded parental leave – 26 weeks full pay (after 1 years’ service)
• Security working for an ASX listed organisation.

If you are a dynamic, hands-on, and empathetic leader with a passion for bringing joy through food and a deep commitment to community, we encourage you to click 'Apply for this Job' and submit your resume.

Please note that to be considered for this role you must be able to work in Australia and be residing in Australia at the time of application. Only applicants who progress to the next stage in the recruitment process will be contacted. You will be required to complete a National Police History Check and Working with Children Check if you are successful for this role.