As Sydney continues to cement its position as a global meeting place for entrepreneurs, founders, creatives and visiting corporates, The Pillars has made a defining culinary appointment with the arrival of Chris Lees as Executive Chef.

The appointment follows the recent arrival of internationally recognised, General Manager Kieron Hunt, whose global hospitality pedigree is shaping the next chapter of the Club.  Together, Hunt and Lees bring a shared philosophy: that meaningful connection is fostered through rare access, considered hospitality and exceptional dining.

Co-founded with his fellow founding Directors, on the instinct of UK-born business consultant, media and tech entrepreneur, Steve Grace, with the belief that Sydney was ready for a modern private members' club, The Pillars has rapidly evolved into a highly curated community. As membership grows across multiple demographics and geographies, so too does the expectation for a dining experience to match.

At The Pillars, dining is central to the member experience - from entertaining colleagues and clients in-house, to curated drinks and dinner gatherings to private functions and events. Lees work complements the Club's portfolio of world-class beverage partners including Ruinart, Moet Hennessy, Glenfiddich, William Grant and Sons, and Port Phillip Estate Kooyong Wines, ensuring every pairing and menu experience is exceptional.

Lees' appointment represents a deliberate investment in making the Club's culinary offering one of its defining 'pillars'.  Members will continue to enjoy the award-winning menu from Eleven Barrack, while Lees' crafts bespoke seasonal menus, tasting experiences and private dining offerings that highlight the Club's refined, produce-driven approach.

With more than 20 years' international experience across Michelin-starred, hatted and ultra-luxury kitchens, Lees is recognised for his technical discipline, produce-led philosophy, and ability to create menus that are refined, generous and deeply considered.

Kieron Hunt, General Manager, The Pillars, says:
 “Private members' clubs are defined by the details. Dining is one of the most powerful ways we bring members together, and Chris' philosophy of thoughtful, produce-driven cooking perfectly reflects the environment we are creating. His culinary leadership will shape the character and daily rhythm of the Club - bringing a distinctive voice to the kitchen and a dining experience worthy of the members who call this place their own. That vision is further enriched by our enduring partnership with Eleven Barrack. The restaurant has been integral to the Club since its earliest days, and the ability for members to order from its kitchen - from the comfort of the Club - remains one of the most valued privileges of belonging. Together, Chris' appointment and the continued presence of Eleven Barrack ensure that dining at The Pillars is not simply a convenience, but a genuine point of distinction."

Most recently, Lees was Head Chef at Printhie Dining at Printhie Wines, where he led the 30-seat fine dining restaurant to secure a Chef Hat in the 2025 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide. His menus were hyper-seasonal, driven by local growers, native ingredients, estate orchards, and foraged produce. He collaborated closely with the winemaker to pair dishes with upcoming vintages and crafted bread, pickles, preserves, and live oyster service - every element rooted in provenance and care.

His career spans leadership roles across Australia, New Zealand and North America, including Head Chef at Prime Restaurant and Grill, Group Head Chef for Wolf Hospitality in Queenstown overseeing five venues and a 40-strong brigade; Executive Head Chef at Flavours Catering and Events in Sydney; and Private Chef roles across Toronto and the Bahamas.

Lees' formative years were spent in some of the world's most revered kitchens, including Frantzén (2 Michelin Stars, World's 50 Best); Matsalen (2 Michelin Stars); Quay (3 Hats, Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide, No. 58 San Pellegrino World's 50 Best);  Restaurant at Pearl Morissette (1 Michelin Star) and Langdon Hall (Relais and Châteaux).

At The Pillars, dining is central to the member experience - from long lunches, curated drinks and dinner gatherings to private functions. Lees work complements the Club's portfolio of world-class beverage partners including Ruinart, Moet Hennessy, Glenfiddich, William Grant and Sons, and Port Phillip Estate Kooyong Wines, ensuring every pairing and menu experience is exceptional.

Chris Lees, Executive Chef, The Pillars, says:
 “What drew me to The Pillars is the opportunity to create a dining experience that feels personal, consistent and quietly exceptional. This is a place where members spend time - for long lunches, dinners, conversations and private events. My focus is to build a menu that feels elevated yet familiar, driven entirely by seasonality and the best available produce.”

Steve Grace, Co-Founder, The Pillars, adds:
 “From the outset, we knew hospitality would sit at the heart of The Pillars. Chris' background in some of the world's best kitchens ensures our dining experience will be as considered and high calibre as our membership.”

Located within one of Sydney's most distinguished heritage buildings in the luxury retail and financial precinct of the CBD, The Pillars continues to establish itself as a discreet yet influential environment for leaders across business, tech, culture and the creative industries.

With Hunt shaping operational excellence and Lees defining its culinary direction, The Pillars enters its next chapter - where hospitality, community and dining work in concert to deliver an experience unmatched in the Australian private club landscape.

-ENDS-

Notes To Editors:

• Website:https://www.thepillars.au/
• Instagram: @thepillars.au
• Hi-res imagery is available

Steve Grace, Kieron Hunt and Chris Lees are available for interview upon request.

For any further media enquiries, please contact iD Collective:

Sally Burleigh | Sydney Director
sallyb@idcollective.com.au
+61 419 516 889

About The Pillars
The Pillars is Sydney's premier private members club - a four-level, invitation-only environment dedicated to cultural exchange, entrepreneurial connection and influential community. Designed for leaders shaping the future of business and culture, membership is highly curated to ensure alignment with the Club's philosophy.