Culinary Innovation Lead: Menu Strategy & Education

Compass Group New Zealand

Auckland

Hybrid

NZD 120,000 - 160,000

Full time

6 days ago
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Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle
Bonuses
Comprehensive benefits
Flexible working options
Employee Assistance Programmes
NZ residency support

Job summary

Compass Group New Zealand is seeking a Culinary Development Lead for Business & Education operations in Auckland. You will steer culinary strategy, elevate menu development, and drive excellence across Eurest and Chartwells brands while collaborating with Operations, Supply Chain and Finance to deliver outstanding customer experiences.

You will mentor site-based leaders, refine allergen management and SOPs, and shape best-practice delivery across the Business & Education portfolio in a dynamic,

Qualifications

  • 5+ years in an Executive Chef or senior culinary position.
  • Strong expertise in menu development and culinary innovation.
  • Experience delivering in a commercial operation.
  • Proven ability to manage food and labour costs within budgets.

Responsibilities

  • Lead culinary development across Business & Education operations, including cyclic menus, recipe cards, allergen management, SOPs, product specs and training content.
  • Drive menu innovation and development in line with the Culinary Calendar to balance quality and commercial outcomes.
  • Partner with Operations, Supply Chain and Finance to ensure cost control and profitable menu execution.
  • Coach Head Chefs and culinary teams to deliver service excellence and consistent standards.
  • Stay ahead of culinary trends, customer insights and competitor activity to improve products and experiences.

Skills

Culinary leadership
Menu development
Culinary innovation
Operational delivery
Cost control
New Zealand produce
Stakeholder collaboration

Job description

Compass Group New Zealand is seeking a Culinary Development Lead for Business & Education operations in Auckland. You will steer culinary strategy, elevate menu development, and drive excellence across Eurest and Chartwells brands while collaborating with Operations, Supply Chain and Finance to deliver outstanding customer experiences.

You will mentor site-based leaders, refine allergen management and SOPs, and shape best-practice delivery across the Business & Education portfolio in a dynamic,

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