Chef Manager

Summerset ·careers.summerset.co.nz

Location Waikanae, Wellington Region, New Zealand
Type Full time
Level Mid
Source Shazamme
Hospital And Health Care Waikanae Village
Apply direct

Company Description:

You can help bring our villages to life! 

At Summerset, from the moment we start developing a village, to when our residents call it home, it’s the passion and dedication of our people that brings our villages to life. We are one team united by being part of something bigger – to bring the best of life to our residents.  

When you’re part of the Summerset team, you belong to a place where your work has real impact, who you are is fully embraced and where your career flourishes. 

Job Description:

Chef Manager Opportunity on the Menu
Our Chef Managers are responsible for the smooth running of kitchen operations, from resident meal service to vibrant café offerings and special events, while leading a passionate culinary team. This is a varied, hands-on leadership role where you’ll help create great food experiences for residents and visitors, while ensuring quality, compliance, and commercial performance.

Your day-to-day will include:

  • Preparing and cooking high-quality meals for residents, including those unable to visit the café
  • Creating appealing menus and cabinet food that drive interest and enjoyment
  • Catering for special events, celebrations, and fine dining experiences
  • Leading, coaching, and supporting your kitchen team, including rostering and day-to-day guidance
  • Managing stock, ordering, food storage, and kitchen equipment to keep operations running smoothly
  • Ensuring full compliance with our Food Control Plan
  • Monitoring costs, minimising waste, and supporting budget performance

This is a Full Time role, working Monday - Friday 9am-5:30pm.

Please click here to view the full job description.

Qualifications:

You’ll be a qualified and experienced Chef with a passion for food, people, and leading a high-performing team. You’ll thrive in a busy environment, bring strong commercial awareness, and take pride in delivering consistently high standards.

You’ll also bring:

  • A recognised professional cookery qualification
  • Proven leadership experience in a high-output kitchen or similar environment
  • Experience across set meal service, café offerings, and catering for events or functions
  • Strong knowledge of food safety, compliance, and the Food Act
  • Confidence managing stock, ordering, and day-to-day kitchen administration
  • Strong communication skills and a genuine passion for mentoring others

Additional Information:

Why Summerset?

Summerset's known for its excellent benefits and strong sense of values around care, teamwork and drive for excellence. With some of the best benefits in the sector, some of these include:

  • Great work-life balance with set weekly hours Monday to Friday, (occasional weekend and nights will be required for events).  

  • Southern Cross Health Essentials Insurance 

  • Ongoing training & development, including opportunities to gain further culinary qualifications 

  • A role where your food genuinely makes a difference every single day 

Ready to Apply? 

Next Steps: Applications for this role will close on 26/06/2026. This role may close early due to an increased number of applications - apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment! 

Frequently asked questions

Who is hiring for the Chef Manager role?
Summerset is hiring for the Chef Manager position, a Shazamme client. Apply directly on the employer's career site.
Where is the Chef Manager job located?
The Chef Manager role with Summerset is based in Waikanae, NZ.
Is the Chef Manager role full-time or contract?
This is a full time position at Summerset.
What experience level is the Chef Manager role?
The Chef Manager position is aimed at mid-level candidates.
How do I apply for the Chef Manager role at Summerset?
Apply directly on Summerset's career page via the Apply button on this listing. ZammeJobs links straight through to the employer's ATS — no third-party form, no resume database.
Apply direct