Head Baker & Gelato Chef | Production Manager

Rollickin Gelato Cafe; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A local gelato cafe in Christchurch is seeking a hands-on leader for their production kitchen. You will balance creative craftsmanship with operational leadership, overseeing daily baking and gelato making while managing a production team of 8. Ideal candidates should have experience in a busy kitchen, strong organization, and communication skills. The role offers competitive pay and a supportive workplace that promotes creativity.

Benefits

Work-life balance

Supportive workplace

Competitive pay package

Qualifications

• Experienced baker/chef with skills in gelato, pastry or dessert.
• Proven leadership in a busy kitchen or production environment.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a production team of 8.
• Oversee daily baking and gelato making.
• Manage stock control and supplier relationships.

Skills

Baking

Gelato making

Leadership

Organization

Communication

Job description

About Us
Rollickin is Christchurch’s home of handcrafted gelato and baking – made fresh daily, with plenty of cheeky fun sprinkled in. We’ve grown to three buzzing locations and a production kitchen, with a team that’s passionate about quality, creativity and making people smile.

The Role
We’re looking for a hands-on leader to head up our production kitchen. You’ll be balancing creative craftsmanship with operational leadership – from baking and gelato making to running a smooth production schedule across our three stores.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a production team of 8, fostering a positive, high-performance culture
• Oversee daily baking and gelato making – ensuring consistency, quality, and innovation
• Manage stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships
• Coordinate production and delivery to three Rollickin locations (driver’s licence required)
• Maintain excellent food safety and hygiene standards
• Collaborate with the wider team on new product development and seasonal specials

About You

• Experienced baker/chef with gelato, pastry or dessert skills (or keen to learn gelato craft)
• Proven leadership in a busy kitchen or production environment
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Hands-on, energetic and solution-focused
• Passionate about quality, creativity, and teamwork

What We Offer

• Realistic work hours that support work-life balance
• A fun, supportive workplace where learning & creativity is encouraged
• The chance to lead and grow with a growing local brand
• Competitive pay package based on experience
• An opportunity to make your mark and shape the future of Rollickin production