Head Chef

Head Chef – Aikmans Merivale

Aikmans Hospitality Group includes Aikmans Merivale, Brigittes Merivale, Brigittes Sumner, No4 Bar, and Mr Brightside. We are proud to offer genuine opportunities for growth and career development within our group, supporting people who want to progress both personally and professionally.

We are currently seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead our established kitchen team at Aikmans Merivale.

Located in the heart of Merivale, Aikmans has been serving the local community for over 30 years. We are a large, vibrant venue offering a lunch menu, all-day small plates and pizza, and an additional dinner menu. We operate seven days a week, with extended hours over the summer period.

With our current Head Chef moving on, we are looking for a motivated leader with strong work ethic, creativity, and the ability to take both the kitchen and venue to the next level. This role requires clear leadership, a focus on team development, and strong operational and creative input.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Managing standard kitchen opening and closing procedures
• Demonstrating high-quality cooking techniques and maintaining consistent standards
• Ensuring quality control across all stages of food preparation and presentation
• Leading smooth service and maintaining high customer satisfaction
• Leading, training, and developing the kitchen team
• Creating and implementing seasonal menus aligned with market trends
• Managing daily ordering and supplier relationships
• Overseeing and maintaining the Kitchen Food Control Plan
• Stock management, budgeting, and monthly stocktakes
• Enforcing hygiene and food safety regulations, including daily and weekly cleaning schedules
• Ensuring compliance with all legal and operational requirements

About You:

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar Head Chef or senior kitchen leadership role
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to work both autonomously and within a team
• Passionate about food, consistency, and continuous improvement
• Organised, reliable, and able to manage a fast-paced environment
• Available to work nights and weekends

What We Offer:

• Minimum 40-hour contract
• Competitive pay, dependent on experience
• Genuine opportunities for growth and development within Aikmans Hospitality Group
• Applicants must hold a valid working visa or be a permanent New Zealand resident or citizen.

If you are passionate about cooking and ready to take the next step in your career, we would love to hear from you.