Executive Chef

seek.co.nz; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Jora New Zealand in Christchurch is seeking an Executive Chef to oversee the kitchen operation, drive menu development, food cost management and guest experience. You will lead a busy seven-day operation, mentoring the team and maintaining food safety standards to deliver outstanding dining and events.

The role requires strong commercial acumen, leadership, and a passion for developing people while sustaining high quality and profitability in a renowned Christchurch venue.

Qualifications

• Experience as Executive Chef or senior Head Chef
• Strong commercial understanding balancing creativity with profitability
• Ability to build a positive kitchen culture with high standards
• Experience leading busy operations from everyday dining to large events
• Enjoy developing people as much as creating exceptional food
• Capable of running a 7-day operation

Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire kitchen operation
• Ensure exceptional food quality and commercial performance
• Develop menus and manage food costs
• Lead and mentor the kitchen team
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety and operational excellence
• Foster a positive, high-performing kitchen culture

Skills

Executive Chef experience

Commercial acumen

Kitchen leadership

People development

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

As Executive Chef, you'll oversee the entire kitchen operation, ensuring exceptional food quality, commercial performance and a consistently outstanding guest experience. The role includes menu development, food cost management, team leadership, supplier relationships and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and operational excellence. You'll also foster a positive, high-performing kitchen culture while mentoring and developing your team for long-term success.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the entire kitchen operation
• Ensure exceptional food quality and commercial performance
• Develop menus and manage food costs
• Lead and mentor the kitchen team
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety and operational excellence
• Foster a positive, high-performing kitchen culture

About you

• Experienced Executive Chef or highly accomplished Head Chef ready to take the next step
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of how to balance creativity with profitability
• Ability to build a positive kitchen culture where high standards become the norm
• Experience leading a busy operation delivering everything from everyday dining to large-scale functions and events
• Enjoy developing people just as much as creating exceptional food
• Able to lead a 7 day a week operation

About us

A long-established and highly respected Christchurch hospitality venue that has built an outstanding reputation over many years. With a loyal customer base, strong leadership and a genuine commitment to quality, this is a business that invests in both its people and its future.