Head Chef - University of Canterbury

Compass Group New Zealand; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

NZQA training benefits

Formal career paths

Star Awards & annual bonuses

Health & safety focus

Discounts on health insurance

On-site parking

Job summary

Compass Group New Zealand is hiring a Head Chef for University Hall at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch. You will manage kitchen operations, lead menu planning, stock control, and team development while ensuring health and food safety standards.

Join a dynamic environment with NZQA qualifications access and clear career pathways, delivering exceptional dining experiences and mentorship to a passionate kitchen team.

Qualifications

• NZQA Level 4 Cookery Certificate or equivalent trade qualification.
• Minimum 4 years’ experience in a similar role with proven leadership skills.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and OH&S practices.

Responsibilities

• Plan, cost, and control menus to meet customer and contractual requirements.
• Lead and mentor the kitchen team, driving performance and compliance.
• Oversee stock management, ordering, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards are met at all times.
• Prepare, cook, and present meals to exceed customer expectations.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Stock control

Food safety

OH&S

Mentoring

Education

NZQA Level 4 Cookery Certificate

Job description

Lead culinary excellence and create memorable dining experiences in a dynamic environment!

• Creative leadership: Design menus and deliver exceptional food experiences.
• Career growth: Access NZQA qualifications and global Compass Group pathways.
• Impactful role: Drive kitchen operations and mentor a passionate team.

He angitūtanga / The opportunity

As Head Chef at University Hall in University of Canterbury you’ll manage kitchen operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality food preparation. You’ll lead menu planning, stock control, and team development while maintaining compliance with health and food safety standards. This is your chance to showcase creativity and leadership in a fast-paced environment. This is a Permanent Full time position.

Ko o Kawenga / Your Responsibilities

• Plan, cost, and control menus to meet customer and contractual requirements.
• Lead and mentor the kitchen team, driving performance and compliance.
• Oversee stock management, ordering, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards are met at all times.
• Prepare, cook, and present meals to exceed customer expectations.

He Kōrero Mōu / About You

• NZQA Level 4 Cookery Certificate or equivalent trade qualification.
• Minimum 4 years’ experience in a similar role with proven leadership skills.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and OH&S practices.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining professionalism.
• Flexible, reliable, and passionate about delivering exceptional food experiences.

Ngā Painga / Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive training and development, including NZQA qualifications.
• Formal career paths to help you achieve your professional goals.
• Rewards & recognition programs, including Star Awards and annual bonuses.
• Health & safety focus with a commitment to employee well‑being.
• Corporate & retail discounts on health insurance, gyms, and more.
• Site‑specific benefits such as free uniforms and on‑site parking.

Mo Mātou / About Us

• We are New Zealand's leading and largest food and support services provider across multiple industries.
• Our sub‑brands, Eurest, Chartwells, Restaurant Associates, Medirest, ESS and Rapport manage these industry sectors.
• We specialise in turning ordinary acts of service into extraordinary experiential moments for our clients. With innovative and talented teams across New Zealand, we transform experiences from being GOOD to GREAT.
• Our people are awesome, they breathe life into our brands and make great things happen!
• Our strength comes from the combination of the things we have in common - our shared values, vision, and purpose and to make our commitment unique for you - RESPECT, GROWTH, and TEAMWORK are the founding pillars of these commitments.
• We are committed to reflecting the diversity of our customers, suppliers, and colleagues. We also prioritise sustainability in everything we do, ensuring an inclusive and equitable environment for all.

Successful candidates will be able to pass per‑employment checks satisfactorily.

Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.