Head Chef- Auckland International Lounge

About the Company We are New Zealand's leading and largest food and support services provider, operating across various industries. Our sub-brands, including Eurest, Chartwells, Restaurant Associates, Medirest, ESS, and Rapport, enable us to manage these diverse sectors effectively. Our mission is to transform ordinary acts of service into extraordinary experiences for our clients. With innovative and talented teams throughout New Zealand, we strive to elevate experiences from good to great. Our people are the heart of our brands, driving our success through shared values, vision, and purpose. We prioritize respect, growth, and teamwork in all our commitments and are dedicated to reflecting the diversity of our customers, suppliers, and colleagues. Sustainability is also a core principle in everything we do, ensuring an inclusive and equitable environment for all. About the Role We are seeking a Head Chef for one of Auckland Airport's prestigious international lounges. In this role, you will lead all kitchen operations to deliver exceptional culinary experiences that meet global airline standards. Your responsibilities will include overseeing menu creation, managing premium food production, leading staff, and ensuring operational excellence while maintaining the highest levels of food safety, compliance, and guest satisfaction. Your Responsibilities As the Head Chef, you will: - Lead and manage the kitchen team, modeling high performance and developing skills while ensuring full compliance with food safety procedures. - Create and build cohesive menus that reflect brand expectations and global culinary trends. - Plan, prepare, and present both buffet and à la carte offerings, ensuring that every dish meets premium quality, consistency, and visual standards. - Manage ordering, stock control, vendor relationships, SAP purchasing, monthly stocktakes, and cost-of-goods performance. - Drive a strong safety culture by maintaining accurate safety and food safety documentation, ensuring audit readiness, and adhering to all airport and airline protocols. - Foster a positive work environment and coach staff to uphold high standards. About You We are looking for a qualified and experienced chef who possesses the following: - NZQA Level 3 or 4 Cookery qualification (or equivalent) and a minimum of six years of proven culinary experience. - Proficiency in technology, including report generation and computer literacy. - Experience in fine dining and cost control. - Confidence in leading a team, coaching performance, and maintaining high standards of professionalism, hygiene, and presentation. - Strong communication skills with the ability to work under pressure while remaining positive, composed, and guest-focused. - Highly organized with solid computer skills (Microsoft Office and SAP preferred) and a strong understanding of cost control and compliance. - Physical fitness, reliability, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous upskilling and industry knowledge development. Benefits & Perks We offer a competitive salary, bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a company vehicle for eligible roles. This leadership position is situated within a dynamic, high-profile international lounge environment. You will have the opportunity to lead and shape a high-performing culinary team, with global career pathways available within Compass Group and access to world-class training and development. We foster a supportive and collaborative leadership culture that includes flexible working options and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) support. Additionally, we provide exclusive discounts on medical insurance, banking services, hotels, and more. For a complete list of benefits, please visit our Benefits page. Successful candidates will be required to pass pre-employment checks satisfactorily.