Head Chef: Build & Lead New Wellington Kitchen

RGIT Australia; Wellington; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounted stays across Drifter venues

Online learning & development

Birthday leave for permanent staff

Volunteer day annually

Enhanced parental leave

Employee Assistance Program

Visa support for exceptional people

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Drifter is opening a new Wellington property in December 2026 and seeks a Head Chef to lead the kitchen from day one. You’ll build the team, shape the culture, and set standards for food quality and guest experience.

This is a rare opportunity to influence operations before launch and work with the Director of Hospitality to refine the menu. You’ll oversee food preparation, quality, stock management, costs and safety while collaborating with leadership to deliver memorable experiences for

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading a kitchen operation in hospitality venues.
• Ability to build a high-performing kitchen culture with standards.
• Experience managing food costs, labour and stock control.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen operation and oversee food quality, service and stock.
• Build and develop a pre-opening kitchen team for Wellington venue.
• Collaborate with leadership to implement menu offerings and standards.
• Ensure safety, hygiene and compliance across kitchen operations.
• Partner with front-of-house to deliver a seamless guest experience.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Team management

Recruitment & coaching

Food cost control

Menu execution

Food safety & compliance

Operational excellence

Staff development

Job description

Drifter is opening a new Wellington property in December 2026 and seeks a Head Chef to lead the kitchen from day one. You’ll build the team, shape the culture, and set standards for food quality and guest experience.

This is a rare opportunity to influence operations before launch and work with the Director of Hospitality to refine the menu. You’ll oversee food preparation, quality, stock management, costs and safety while collaborating with leadership to deliver memorable experiences for