Head Chef

Lead the kitchen. Inspire your team. Deliver exceptional school dining experiences.

• Prestigious school environment – lead catering at one of Auckland’s leading independent schools.
• Creative and leadership focused – shape menus, lead a team, and deliver memorable food experiences.
• Career growth with Compass Group – develop your leadership in a supported, nationwide network.

He angitūtanga | The opportunity

As Head Chef, you will lead kitchen operations at St Cuthbert’s College, ensuring high‑quality food is prepared, cooked, and presented in line with contractual requirements and Compass Group standards. You’ll drive efficiency, lead your team, and uphold the highest standards of food safety, quality, and customer satisfaction. This is a Permanent Full Time position.

Ko o kawenga | Your responsibilities

• Plan, cost, and deliver menus that meet client expectations, dietary requirements, and budget targets.
• Lead and manage kitchen operations, ensuring food quality, consistency, and efficient service delivery.
• Supervise, coach, and develop kitchen team members, supporting performance and engagement.
• Manage stock, ordering, and cost control systems to minimise waste and optimise supply.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations

He kōrero mōu | About you

• NZQA Level 4 Cookery qualification (or equivalent) with proven experience in a similar leadership role.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to coach, motivate, and develop a high‑performing team.
• Experience in menu planning, stock control, and operating within budget constraints.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards and a positive, professional approach.
• Strong communication skills, with a flexible, hardworking, and reliable attitude.

Ngā painga | Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive Training & Development: Access to online learning programs, apprenticeships, and NZQA qualifications.
• Formal Career Paths: Clear pathways to help you achieve your professional goals.
• Rewards & Recognition: Star Awards, Service Awards, and annual performance bonuses.
• Health & Safety Focus: A commitment to providing a safe and healthy work environment.
• Corporate & Retail Discounts: Discounts on health insurance, gym memberships, optometry services, and more.
• Site‑Specific Benefits: Free uniforms, on‑site parking, and access to school facilities.

Please visit our Benefits page for a comprehensive list of our benefits.

Mō 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 pre‑employment checks satisfactorily.

Applicants must have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.

Recruitment for this role will actively commence from the date of advertising. The closing date is reliant on the appointment of the successful applicant.

Don’t miss this opportunity to lead and inspire in a prestigious school kitchen — Click ‘Apply’ now!

For recruitment queries please contact the Compass Group Recruitment team at

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