Sous Chef

2 days ago

Christchurch Central, New Zealand Venues Ōtautahi Full time NZ$60,000 - NZ$90,000 per year

About Us

Venues Ōtautahi attract and host a wide range of events in Christchurch and manage a diverse and iconic portfolio of community venues, including the Christchurch Town Hall, Wolfbrook Arena, Apollo Projects Stadium, Hagley Oval, the Air Force Museum of New Zealand, and One New Zealand Stadium.

The events held across the Venues Ōtautahi portfolio deliver significant social, cultural, and economic benefits to the region, and ultimately, these iconic city venues play a valued role to the Christchurch way of life and the economic prosperity and social wellbeing of the region.

About the Role

We are seeking a talented and experienced Sous Chef to play a pivotal role within our culinary team, supporting the Head Chef in all aspects of food preparation, team leadership, and kitchen management. This key role is essential to maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and operational efficiency across all culinary operations. As second-in-command, the Sous Chef also steps into the Head Chef's role during their absence, ensuring continuity and consistency in service.

This position is based on a seven-day operation and will require shift work and weekend work as required.

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead and support food production, team management, and kitchen operations as second-in-command.
  • Contribute to the execution of Venues Ōtautahi's culinary strategy.
  • Supervise, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive kitchen culture.
  • Coordinate and manage the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring smooth service.
  • Allocate duties and support section chefs (Chef de Partie, Commis) during busy service periods.
  • Monitor inventory levels, assist with ordering, and manage deliveries.
  • Ensure proper stock rotation (FIFO) and minimal wastage.
  • Support the Head Chef in building a strong, motivated, and skilled culinary team.
  • Maintain exceptional standards in food quality, presentation, hygiene, and efficiency.
  • Step into the Head Chef's role when required, ensuring seamless service delivery.

About You

Ideal candidates will have:

  • Relevant culinary qualification
  • Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie in a high-volume kitchen
  • Strong leadership and team management skills
  • In-depth knowledge of food production, menu design, and culinary techniques
  • Excellent time management and organisational skills
  • Experience in ordering, stock control, and food cost management
  • Calm and composed under pressure, with strong problem-solving skills
  • Inspirational leader who builds confidence and capability in others
  • High attention to detail, quality, and presentation
  • Adaptable and resilient, with a commitment to continuous improvement
  • Passionate about food, service, and creating memorable experiences

We act with aspiration, agility, kindness and are driven to take care of the venues to make them places of pride and delight for everyone.

If you are ready to bring your talent and inspire our team, we want to hear from you.

How to apply

Click "apply" to be directed our careers page where you can view the position description and submit an application.

Applications close 10 November 2025

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