Chef Manager - Weekdays, Lead Kitchen & Menu Creation

Summerset Retirement Villages; Wellington; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Summerset Retirement Villages is seeking a Chef Manager for the Wanganui village. You will lead a high-output kitchen, plan menus, and oversee café offerings and special events to deliver outstanding dining experiences for residents and visitors.

Join a dedicated team focused on quality, compliance, and commercial performance, with opportunities for development and involvement in ongoing training. This permanent full-time role operates Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:30pm.

Qualifications

• Qualified professional chef with recognised cookery qualification.
• Proven leadership experience in a high-output kitchen.
• Experience across set meal service, café offerings, and catering for events or functions.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, compliance, and the Food Act.
• Confidence managing stock, ordering, and day-to-day kitchen administration.
• Strong communication skills and a genuine passion for mentoring others.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and cooking high-quality meals for residents, including those unable to visit the café
• Creating appealing menus and cabinet food that drive interest and enjoyment
• Catering for special events, celebrations, and fine dining experiences
• Leading, coaching, and supporting your 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

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Education

A recognised professional cookery qualification

Job description

Summerset Retirement Villages is seeking a Chef Manager for the Wanganui village. You will lead a high-output kitchen, plan menus, and oversee café offerings and special events to deliver outstanding dining experiences for residents and visitors.

Join a dedicated team focused on quality, compliance, and commercial performance, with opportunities for development and involvement in ongoing training. This permanent full-time role operates Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:30pm.