Job Description
Located in the vibrant heart of central Christchurch, this premium dining venue offers a sophisticated urban escape in one of New Zealand's most dynamic and rapidly evolving cities. The menu fuses European classics with modern favourites, with each dish crafted with precision, creativity, and elegant style. We are seeking a Head Chef to lead a team of talented chefs who are passionate, ambitious, and eager to learn from a skilled and inspiring leader.
About the role
As the Head Chef you will lead, motivate and inspire a small team through hands-on kitchen/people management. The role is full time, permanent and requires the Head Chef to be present during busy services which will include some evenings and weekends, due to the 7-day lunch and dinner operation. The menus change seasonally, and you will use your creative talents and commercial nouse to continuously reinvent the wheel, delighting each guest with each visit. Some key responsibilities will include:
Who we are looking for
You will be a classically trained chef with a minimum of 10 years' experience in upmarket restaurants or hotels, specialising primarily in Italian or French cuisine. Proven leadership in a fast-paced kitchen is essential - ideally at Head Chef level, though strong Sous Chefs ready to take the next step will also be considered. You will also bring:
This is your chance to be part of a growing hospitality group that has continued to shine, even through the challenges the industry has faced in recent years.
Note: No sponsorship is available - only candidates with full NZ working rights will be considered
- Up to $40 per hour
- Mixture of days and evenings
- Parking, meals, phone + more
About the role
As the Head Chef you will lead, motivate and inspire a small team through hands-on kitchen/people management. The role is full time, permanent and requires the Head Chef to be present during busy services which will include some evenings and weekends, due to the 7-day lunch and dinner operation. The menus change seasonally, and you will use your creative talents and commercial nouse to continuously reinvent the wheel, delighting each guest with each visit. Some key responsibilities will include:
- Leading all day-to-day kitchen operations with calm, clear direction
- Train, roster and mentor a small team of reliable kitchen staff
- Work closely with the directors and Group Exec Chef
- Monitor and control kitchen expenses to maintain profitability & achieve KPI's
- Engaging confidently with guests, staff and suppliers to create a positive and professional atmosphere
- Managing compliance with the FCP
Who we are looking for
You will be a classically trained chef with a minimum of 10 years' experience in upmarket restaurants or hotels, specialising primarily in Italian or French cuisine. Proven leadership in a fast-paced kitchen is essential - ideally at Head Chef level, though strong Sous Chefs ready to take the next step will also be considered. You will also bring:
- Experience with both contemporary and classical cooking techniques in premium venues
- Excellent understanding of financial management, cost control, and team performance
- Strong creative instincts with the ability to design elegant yet approachable menus
- Excellent recent references that attest to your calm, confident and effective leadership style
This is your chance to be part of a growing hospitality group that has continued to shine, even through the challenges the industry has faced in recent years.
Note: No sponsorship is available - only candidates with full NZ working rights will be considered