Head Chef / Kitchen Lead

Head Chef role at Sailor Galley & Rum Bar in Mount Maunganui, leading a compact kitchen with shared responsibilities.

About the role

This is a hands-on leadership role in a compact kitchen. You'll take responsibility for the overall running of the kitchen at Sailor Galley & Rum Bar, a small, busy neighbourhood restaurant and bar in the heart of Mount Maunganui. You won't be expected to carry every service and prep shift yourself. The weekly workload will be shared with another chef, who will assist with preparation, cover selected services and work alongside you on busy nights. Kitchen-hand support is also provided during busier shifts.

Key responsibilities

• Taking ownership of Sailor's day-to-day kitchen operations
• Preparing and delivering consistently high-quality food
• Managing prep, ordering, stock rotation and kitchen organisation
• Monitoring food costs, portion control and waste
• Maintaining excellent food-safety and cleaning standards
• Contributing seasonal dishes and practical menu ideas
• Leading and working alongside the supporting chef and kitchen hands
• Working closely with the owners and front-of-house team
• Ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly, efficiently and consistently

About you

• Has solid experience as a senior chef, sous chef or head chef
• Is confident leading a small kitchen
• Can stay calm, organised and consistent during busy services
• Understands food costing, ordering, stock control and wage efficiency
• Has high standards without overcomplicating systems or service
• Is reliable, practical and a strong communicator
• Enjoys creating flavourful, contemporary food suited to a busy neighbourhood venue
• Takes pride in their kitchen and wants genuine ownership of the role

About us

Sailor Galley & Rum Bar is an established, independently owned Mount Maunganui venue with supportive, hands-on owners, a loyal local following and the opportunity to make the kitchen your own. Our food is modern, generous and produce-led—designed for sharing, with plenty of flavour and a polished but unpretentious style.

Pay rate: $32–$36 per hour, depending on experience
Full-time: approximately 40–45 hours per week

To apply, please send your CV and a short introduction telling us about your experience, the type of food you enjoy cooking and what you’re looking for in your next role to [email protected]

Applications will be reviewed as they arrive, and we are available to meet suitable applicants promptly