Head Chef | Restaurant Associates

Compass Group New Zealand; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Exclusive discounts

Flexible working options

Employee assistance programme

Job summary

Restaurant Associates in Wellington is seeking a Head Chef to lead a premium venue from launch, overseeing every aspect of kitchen operations with a focus on innovation, quality and service excellence.

You will recruit, coach and develop a high-performing kitchen team, drive cost control and stock management, and ensure food safety and exceptional guest experiences in a fast-paced luxury environment.

Qualifications

• NZ residency or valid NZ work visa.
• NZQA Level 4 Cookery Certificate or equivalent.
• Extensive commercial culinary experience.
• Proven leadership of high-performing kitchen teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team to deliver exceptional food and service.
• Design and develop innovative menus and dining concepts.
• Recruit, coach, and mentor culinary talent.
• Drive cost control, stock management, and supplier partnerships.
• Champion food safety and operational best practice.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and elevated guest experiences.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Menu development

Cost control

Food safety

Team mentorship

Education

NZQA Level 4 Cookery Certificate

Job description

Create exceptional. Lead with distinction.

An extraordinary opportunity to shape a premium hospitality destination from the very beginning. Restaurant Associates is seeking visionary culinary leaders to join as a Head Chef within an exciting new venue opening in Wellington.

• Premium venue launch – influence and define a world‑class food experience from day one.
• Culinary excellence – champion innovation, creativity, and unforgettable dining experiences.
• Leadership opportunity – inspire, develop, and lead a high‑performing kitchen team within a global organisation.

At Restaurant Associates, we believe remarkable food creates remarkable moments. As Head Chef, you will be at the heart of delivering exceptional culinary experiences, leading every aspect of kitchen operations while setting the standard for innovation, quality, and service excellence.

This is more than a leadership role. It is an opportunity to establish a unique food culture, elevate dining expectations, and leave your mark on a flagship hospitality destination.

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team to consistently deliver exceptional food and service standards.
• Design and develop innovative menus and dining concepts that delight customers and exceed expectations.
• Recruit, coach, and mentor culinary talent, building a culture of excellence and continuous development.
• Drive commercial performance through effective cost control, purchasing, stock management, and supplier partnerships.
• Champion food safety, health and safety, and operational best practice across all kitchen activities.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement, innovation, and elevated guest experiences.
• NZQA Level 4 Cookery Certificate (or equivalent trade qualification) with substantial commercial culinary experience.
• An inspiring leader with a proven track record of developing high‑performing kitchen teams.
• Strong commercial and financial acumen, with experience managing budgets, food costs, and operational performance.
• A passion for premium hospitality, culinary trends, and creating memorable dining experiences.
• The ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment while maintaining exceptional standards and attention to detail.
• Competitive salary package and comprehensive benefits.
• The opportunity to shape and lead a premium culinary operation from launch.
• Career progression and development within the global Restaurant Associates network.
• A collaborative, supportive, and people‑focused culture.
• Access to exclusive discounts on medical insurance, banking services, accommodation, and more.
• Flexible working options and Employee Assistance Programmes to support your wellbeing.

• Restaurant Associates delivers premium hospitality experiences across some of New Zealand’s most prestigious workplaces and venues. We are passionate about creating elevated dining experiences that combine exceptional food, impeccable service, and genuine hospitality.
• Backed by Compass Group, the world's leading food and support services organisation, we bring together culinary expertise, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do. Our people are at the centre of our success, united by shared values of Respect, Growth, and Teamwork.
• We are committed to creating diverse, inclusive, and sustainable workplaces where people can thrive and deliver extraordinary experiences every day.

Successful candidates will be required to satisfactorily complete pre‑employment checks.

Applicants must hold NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.

Creating meaningful and lasting connections through exceptional hospitality.