Cafe Chef Manager: Daytime Leadership & Creative Menu

Lifewise; Auckland; On-site; NZD 54,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Lifewise is seeking a hands-on Cafe Chef Manager to lead our busy standalone neighborhood cafe in Auckland. You will run the kitchen, design seasonal brunch and lunch menus, and manage daily operations with a focus on quality and efficiency.

This role requires at least 3 years as Head Chef or Kitchen Manager, cafe experience in high-volume settings, strong food cost knowledge, and leadership skills to motivate a small team while upholding strict hygiene standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years as Head Chef or Kitchen Manager.
• Experience in high-volume, fast-casual dining or specialty cafes.
• Strong understanding of food cost percentages and gross profit margins.
• Ability to motivate a team under pressure.
• Valid food safety and management certifications required.

Responsibilities

• Menu Creation: Design innovative, cost-effective brunch and lunch menus.
• Kitchen Leadership: Hire, train, and manage a small, passionate back-of-house team.
• Inventory Control: Manage ordering, stock rotation, and food waste.
• Supplier Relations: Source fresh, local ingredients from regional suppliers.
• Financial Oversight: Meet food cost targets and labor budgets.
• Compliance: Maintain strict food hygiene, safety, and health standards.

Skills

Head Chef

Kitchen Management

Cafe Experience

Food Cost Understanding

Leadership

Certifications (Food Safety)

Job description

Lifewise is seeking a hands-on Cafe Chef Manager to lead our busy standalone neighborhood cafe in Auckland. You will run the kitchen, design seasonal brunch and lunch menus, and manage daily operations with a focus on quality and efficiency.

This role requires at least 3 years as Head Chef or Kitchen Manager, cafe experience in high-volume settings, strong food cost knowledge, and leadership skills to motivate a small team while upholding strict hygiene standards.