Chef Manager: Lead Kitchen, Menus & Events (Mon–Fri)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Training & development

Opportunity to gain culinary quals

Great work-life balance

Job summary

Summerset is seeking a Chef Manager in our Whanganui village to lead a busy kitchen, delivering high-quality meals for residents, café offerings and events. You’ll manage a culinary team, plan menus, control costs and ensure Food Control Plan compliance in a warm, resident-focused environment.

This permanent full-time role runs Monday to Friday, with occasional weekends or nights for events. A professional cookery qualification and strong leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• Qualified chef with a professional cookery qualification.
• Proven leadership in a high-output kitchen.
• Experience with set meal service, café offerings and event catering.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, compliance and the Food Act.
• Stock management, ordering and day-to-day kitchen administration.
• Excellent communication and mentoring skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook high-quality meals for residents.
• Lead and coach the kitchen team, including rostering and day-to-day guidance.
• Develop appealing menus and cabinet food for residents and visitors.
• Cater for special events, celebrations and functions.
• Manage stock, ordering, food storage and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with the Food Control Plan.
• Monitor costs, minimise waste and support budget performance.

Skills

Leadership

Food safety

Stock & cost control

Menu & events catering

Mentoring others

Communication

Education

Professional cookery qualification

Job description

Summerset is seeking a Chef Manager in our Whanganui village to lead a busy kitchen, delivering high-quality meals for residents, café offerings and events. You’ll manage a culinary team, plan menus, control costs and ensure Food Control Plan compliance in a warm, resident-focused environment.

This permanent full-time role runs Monday to Friday, with occasional weekends or nights for events. A professional cookery qualification and strong leadership are essential.