Head Chef

1 week ago

Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand Moanalei Villas Full time

Job Title:
Pre-Opening Head Chef

Location:
Moanalei Villas,
Samoa, Pacific Islands

Reports To:
General Manager/Owner

Job Summary:

Moanalei Villas is seeking a highly skilled and creative
Pre-Opening head Chef
who is currently based within the South Pacific region, to lead the culinary vision for our luxury resort. This role is responsible for developing the menu, setting up the kitchen layout, sourcing suppliers, hiring and training the kitchen team, and ensuring a seamless kitchen setup before the grand opening. The ideal candidate will bring a passion for high-quality pacific cuisine, excellent leadership skills, and experience in pre-opening operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Pre-Opening Phase:

  • Collaborate with ownership and management to define the restaurant's culinary identity, menu style, and operational requirements.
  • Develop a unique and high-quality menu incorporating local and international flavours, focusing on fresh and sustainable ingredients.
  • Plan and oversee the kitchen's layout, design, and functionality, ensuring an efficient workflow.
  • Select, source, and negotiate contracts with food suppliers, ensuring cost-effective procurement of top-quality ingredients.
  • Recruit, hire, and train a skilled kitchen team, including sous chefs, line cooks, and other staff.
  • Establish food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards in compliance with and exceeding local regulations.
  • Develop and implement SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) for the kitchen and food preparation areas.
  • Set up inventory and stock management systems, ensuring cost control and minimal waste.

Post-Opening Operations:

  • Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring food quality, presentation, and taste consistency.
  • Maintain high standards of cleanliness, food safety, and hygiene in compliance with health regulations.
  • Monitor food costs, labour costs, and kitchen expenses, implementing cost-control measures without compromising quality.
  • Train and mentor staff to maintain a positive, efficient, and professional kitchen environment.
  • Collaborate with front-of-house and management to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
  • Adapt and refine the menu based on guest feedback and seasonal availability of ingredients.
  • Stay updated on culinary trends and continuously innovate to enhance the restaurant's offerings.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • Minimum 1
    years
    of experience as a Head Chef
  • Proven experience in pre-opening kitchen operations, including setup and menu development.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, and motivate a kitchen team.
  • In-depth knowledge of international and Pacific cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
  • Excellent budgeting, cost control, and supplier negotiation skills.
  • Strong understanding of food safety regulations and best practices.
  • Creative mindset with the ability to develop innovative, high-quality menus.
  • Exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and adapt to a fast-paced, evolving environment.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with management and staff.

Benefits & Compensation:

  • Competitive salary based on experience.
  • Accommodation and relocation assistance (if applicable).
  • Professional development opportunities.
  • Opportunity to lead and shape the culinary identity of a premier luxury resort in Samoa.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their
resume, and a cover letter
outlining their culinary vision for Moanalei Villas to

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