Sous Chef - Christchurch Airport Lounges

Bring your culinary expertise to a premium lounge environment and deliver exceptional dining experiences!

Why you’ll love this role

• Work with an iconic brand: Partner with Air New Zealand to create world-class lounge experiences.
• Career growth: Access NZQA qualifications and formal career pathways with Compass Group.
• Dynamic environment: Showcase your skills in a fast-paced, high-end hospitality setting.

He angitūtanga / The opportunity:

As Sous Chef, you’ll support the Head Chef in managing kitchen operations, ensuring the preparation and presentation of high-quality meals for Air New Zealand Lounge guests. You’ll lead by example, maintain compliance with food safety standards, and contribute to menu development and team training. This is a Permanent Full Time Position rostered across 7 days of the week. Therefore, you MUST be available to work during weekends.

Ko o kawenga / Your responsibilities:

• Assist in planning and controlling menu-based catering, including costing and portion control.
• Prepare, cook, and present food to the highest standards.
• Supervise and coach team members, ensuring compliance with food safety procedures.
• Manage stock ordering, supply processes, and inventory control.
• Maintain hygiene and cleanliness across kitchen and service areas.

He kōrero mōu / About you:

• NZQA Level 4 Cookery Certificate or equivalent trade qualification.
• Minimum 4 years’ experience in a similar role with proven culinary expertise.
• Strong communication skills and ability to lead and mentor a team.
• Flexible, reliable, and able to work under pressure while maintaining professionalism.
• NZQA Food Handling Certificate (Units 167 & 168) and Police Clearance required.

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.

Don'tmiss out on this unique opportunity - Click 'Apply' Now!

For any recruitment queries please contact the Compass Group Recruitment team at recruitment@compass-group.co.nz

Creating meaningful and lasting connections with every experience.