Executive Chef

Hilton Worldwide, Inc.; Taupo; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hotel in Taupo is seeking an Executive Chef to oversee culinary operations across multiple outlets. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in high-end hotels, a strong understanding of kitchen management, and a passion for culinary excellence. Key responsibilities include menu development, budget management, and team leadership. This role offers an opportunity to create exceptional dining experiences for guests.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience as Executive Chef or a High-Performance Executive Sous.
• At least 5 years in a leadership role in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid HACCP Certification or relevant Food Safety/Hygiene certification.

Responsibilities

• Overseeing all kitchen operations including multiple culinary outlets.
• Creating award-winning menus balancing innovation and cost-effectiveness.
• Managing departmental budgets and reducing costs.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary excellence

Budget management

Innovative menu creation

HACCP compliance

Team development

High-pressure efficiency

English proficiency

Education

Hospitality or Culinary Qualification

Job description

Overview

Executive Chef (Job Number: HOT0BZ3K)

Location

Hilton Lake Taupo Hotel, 80-100 Napier Road (SH5), Taupo 3330

About Hilton

With thousands of hotels in over 100 countries and territories, Hilton offers countless opportunities to delight. From an open door to a welcoming smile and an exceptional experience, we offer the millions of travellers who stay with us every year a welcome they will never forget. In addition to the flagship brand, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the family of brands includes Waldorf Astoria, LXR, Conrad, Canopy, Curio Collection, DoubleTree, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton and many others.

If you appreciate the impact global travel can have on the world, you may be just the person we are looking for to work as a Hilton Team Member. Because it’s with Hilton where we never forget the reason we\'re here: to delight our guests, Team Members, and owners alike.

Role Summary

Joining our dynamic hotel team as Executive Chef, you will lead the culinary operations across multiple outlets including Bistro Lago Restaurant, Room Service, Events, and the Team Member Restaurant. Reporting to the Hotel Manager, this role suits a passionate leader who thrives in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.

As the Executive Chef, you will lead the culinary vision and operations across all outlets at Hilton Lake Taupō, ensuring excellence in every dish and every guest experience. You will be responsible for:

Responsibilities

• Overseeing all kitchen operations including the Main Kitchen (European cuisine), Kitchen, Executive Lounge, Banquet & Events Kitchen, and Stewarding.
• Creating award-winning menus that balance innovation, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Managing departmental budgets and implementing strategies to reduce costs and minimise waste.
• Ensuring full compliance with WHS and HACCP standards across all culinary areas.
• Mentoring and developing a talented kitchen and stewarding team to achieve high performance and growth.
• Delivering exceptional guest experiences through quality, consistency, and creativity.
• Collaborating with service teams to ensure smooth operations and timely service.
• Leading menu development, food tastings, and seasonal concept changes.
• Conducting regular team briefings, training sessions, and performance reviews.
• Monitoring food quality, portion control, and inventory to optimise cost and guest satisfaction.
• Upholding Hilton’s brand standards and fostering a culture of professionalism and teamwork.

This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a passion for culinary excellence. Responsibilities may evolve based on operational requirements.

What are we looking for?

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience as Executive Chef or a High-Performance Executive Sous in a 4 or 5-star hotel or high-end restaurant.
• At least 5 years in a leadership role in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid HACCP Certification or relevant similar Food Safety /Hygiene certification.
• Strong command of English (verbal and written).
• Experience with international hotel brands is highly desirable.
• Hospitality or Culinary Qualification.
• Excellent leadership capabilities and team management skills. Excellent planning, organising and time management skills.
• Proven financial acumen to be able to manage food and labour costs, and develop strategies and systems to reduce expenses and wastage.
• A business focused approach to managing a hotel kitchen.
• Experience with Quality Audit and/ or Food control plan.
• Meeting & events catering experience advantageous

What will it be like to work for Hilton?

Hilton is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels. For nearly a century, Hilton has offered business and leisure travellers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. Hilton is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands. Our vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality unites us as a team to create remarkable hospitality experiences around the world every day. And, our amazing Team Members are at the heart of it all!