Chef Manager: Lead Kitchen, Menus & Events

Summerset; Taupo; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Training & development

Great benefits and work-life balance

Job summary

Summerset is seeking a Chef Manager to lead our kitchen operations, delivering high-quality meals for residents and cafe guests while driving excellence across menus, events, and day-to-day kitchen activities. You will coach a passionate team, manage stock and costs, ensure strict food safety, and maintain strong compliance with Food Act requirements, all within a vibrant, resident‑focused environment.

Join Summerset to shape memorable dining experiences, benefit from ongoing training, and

Qualifications

• Qualified and experienced Chef with a professional cookery qualification.
• Proven leadership experience in a high-output kitchen.
• Experience across set meal service, café offerings, and events or functions.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, compliance, and the Food Act.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and cooking high-quality meals for residents and cafe guests.
• Creating appealing menus and cabinet food that drive interest and enjoyment.
• Catering for special events, celebrations, and fine dining experiences.
• Leading, coaching, and supporting kitchen team, including rostering and day-to-day guidance.
• Managing stock, ordering, food storage, and kitchen equipment to keep operations running smoothly.
• Ensuring full compliance with our Food Control Plan.
• Monitoring costs, minimising waste, and supporting budget performance.
• This is a full-time role working Monday - Friday, 9am - 5:30pm.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Food safety knowledge

Education

Professional cookery qualification

Job description

Summerset is seeking a Chef Manager to lead our kitchen operations, delivering high-quality meals for residents and cafe guests while driving excellence across menus, events, and day-to-day kitchen activities. You will coach a passionate team, manage stock and costs, ensure strict food safety, and maintain strong compliance with Food Act requirements, all within a vibrant, resident‑focused environment.

Join Summerset to shape memorable dining experiences, benefit from ongoing training, and