Porirua Club - Head Chef

9 February 2026

Head Chef – Lead the Culinary & Food Service Team at The Porirua Club

Location: Porirua, Wellington
Employment Type: Full-time
Reports to: General Manager

About the Club

The Porirua Club is a well-established, community-focused club with a strong and loyal membership base. We operate a members’ restaurant, deliver buffets and functions, and host a wide range of events throughout the year. Our focus is on quality food, consistency, and a positive team environment.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head Chef to take overall responsibility for our kitchen and food service operations, including leadership of both kitchen staff and front-of-house food service staff.

This is a senior, hands-on role suited to a leader who enjoys setting standards, building strong teams, and delivering consistently high-quality food and service.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary & Service Operations

• Design, develop, and maintain menus for:
  • A la carte restaurant service (counter service, no table service)
  • Buffets
  • Functions and special events
• Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and service standards
• Oversee day-to-day food service operations, including kitchen and food service staff

Financial & Commercial

• Complete accurate food costings and pricing
• Manage food budgets, margins, ordering, and stock control
• Monitor and manage food waste and kitchen efficiency

Leadership & People Management

• Lead, train, and manage both kitchen and food service staff
• Manage recruitment, interviews, onboarding, and ongoing training
• Set clear performance expectations and maintain professional standards
• Foster a positive, respectful, and accountable team culture

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety requirements
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised working environment

Hours & Flexibility

This is a full-time position requiring flexibility to meet operational needs.

• The restaurant operates five days per week, including weekends
• Sunday service operates in the late afternoon / evening
• Occasional functions may be scheduled on Mondays or Tuesdays
• The restaurant opens for Tuesday lunch approximately once per month

About You

You will bring:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, or senior chef
• Strong capability in menu development, food costings, and kitchen financials
• Demonstrated experience leading mixed teams, including food service staff
• Clear communication skills and a calm, organised leadership style
• High standards, reliability, and pride in your work
• A collaborative approach suited to a member-focused club environment
• The legal right to work in New Zealand without employer sponsorship

What We Offer

• Competitive salary, negotiable based on experience
• A stable, full-time leadership role within a respected community club
• The opportunity to shape menus, systems, and team culture
• Supportive management and a clear reporting structure

Please apply to manager@poriruaclub.co.nz with a CV and Cover letter.