Project Chef - fixed term

UCC Coffee Australia & New Zealand; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Robert Harris (RH) in Christchurch is seeking a Project Chef for a 3‑month fixed-term, full-time role. You will lead a review of our food strategy and work to deliver exceptional food experiences that align with our brand. The position may consider candidates based in Auckland, with Monday to Friday schedules and start readiness.

The ideal candidate brings a passion for food, understanding of trends, and strong communication to engage stakeholders and manage priorities effectively.

Qualifications

• Experience in café ownership, hospitality operations, or product development.
• Ability to run project work and represent the brand.
• Clean full driver’s licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead a 3‑month project to review and shape future food strategy.
• Manage project timelines and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Christchurch and Auckland teams as needed.

Skills

Food trends

Commercial awareness

Stakeholder management

Communication

Organisational skills

Driver's licence

Job description

About Us

We are Robert Harris (RH), established in 1952. We are one of the most famous names in Coffee in New Zealand, with one of the largest coffee footprints in the country. Our Coffee beans are roasted locally in Auckland, and we are recognised for our great taste and consistent quality.

Why join us as our Project Chef

We have an exciting 3-month, fixed term opportunity for a Project Chef to join our Christchurch-based team (we would also consider candidates based in Auckland). You'll lead a review for us, helping shape the future food strategy.

Who are we looking for?

You're a passionate foodie who takes genuine pride in delivering exceptional food experiences. Whether your background comes from café ownership, hospitality operations, product development, or a similar environment, you have a strong appreciation for what makes a food offering both commercially successful and appealing to customers.

You will have the enthusiasm and know how to run an exciting piece of project work for us and represent us and our brand in the best way.

To Be Successful In This Role, You'll Bring

• A strong understanding of food trends, product quality, and customer expectations.
• Commercial awareness, with an understanding of how food decisions impact
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to engage stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage projects and priorities effectively.
• Clean full drivers licence.

This full-time, fixed-term role is 40 hours per week, working Monday to Friday. While the position is based in Christchurch, we would also consider candidates based in Auckland. Ideally, you'll be available to start immediately.