About this role

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

Is the salary disclosed for the Chef Manager position at summerset1?
The salary for this Chef Manager role at summerset1 is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Chef Manager position at summerset1 located?
This Chef Manager role at summerset1 is based in Waikanae, Waikanae, Wellington Region, New Zealand, Wellington Region, nz. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Chef Manager role at summerset1 full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Chef Manager role in the Waikanae Village department at summerset1.
Which team or department does the Chef Manager at summerset1 belong to?
This Chef Manager position is part of the Waikanae Village department at summerset1. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Chef Manager position at summerset1?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to summerset1's official application portal hosted on smartrecruiters where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Chef Manager job at summerset1 posted?
This Chef Manager position at summerset1 was posted on May 28, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Chef Manager
summerset1
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