Head Chef | Auckland_NewZealand
Lead a vibrant kitchen in a luxury village. Hands-on Head Chef role with top benefits, work-life balance, and room to grow.
We're searching for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead the food service across our vibrant our clients retirement village - a full-service café, 60-bed care home, and thriving community of over 350 residents.
This is a big, dynamic operation with a strong sense of heart and community. From baking scones and muffins in the morning to plating up beautiful dinners and running weekly events, you'll be the one driving quality, consistency, and culture across the kitchen and cafe.
You'll oversee all kitchen operations, lead a skilled team, and have the freedom to influence menus, events, and the overall dining experience - all while keeping the heart of the food home-style, fresh, and made with care.
What You'll Be Doing - Lead and inspire a team of 12 cafe and kitchen staff, including 2-4 kitchen hands per shift.
- 4 days on the tools, 1 day for admin, planning, and operations.
- Oversee daily service for the cafe, care home, and catering functions.
- Maintain high standards in food quality, presentation, and hygiene.
- Create and manage menus in partnership with dietitians, focused on fresh, balanced, and comforting meals.
- Drive kitchen profitability through smart cost control, stock management, and supplier relationships.
- Manage weekly functions and events, ensuring each runs seamlessly.
- Build a strong, supportive team culture where everyone feels valued and motivated.
What You'll Bring - 3+ years' experience as a Head Chef in a cafe or aged care environment.
- Strong background in café or volume catering environments.
- Confident leadership style - someone who leads by example, not micromanagement.
- Great communication and organisational skills.
- Solid understanding of health, safety, and food compliance.
- Tech-savvy and confident using modern kitchen systems.
- Passion for people, great food, and creating an exceptional dining experience.
Why You'll Love It Here - Flexible start/finish times.
- Monday to Friday - no late nights.
- Work in a stunning, supportive village environment that values quality and connection.
- 3 paid wellness days per year.
- Birthday leave..
- Health insurance
- 26 weeks' full-pay parental leave + 5 days paid partner leave.
- Access to EAP support.
If you're a Head Chef who loves leadership, community, and crafting great food experiences, this role is your chance to make a real impact every day.
Apply now and bring your passion!
JOB REFERENCE #3979731