Head Chef

Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Lakeview is seeking an exceptional Head Chef to lead our busy kitchen, deliver outstanding culinary experiences, and inspire a high-performing team.

This is the perfect opportunity for an experienced and motivated chef who thrives in a hands-on, dynamic hotel environment and is passionate about consistently delivering quality, creativity, and operational excellence.

As our Head Chef, you will be responsible for all kitchen operations, including menu design, food preparation, team leadership, cost control, and Food Control Plan compliance. Working alongside the General Manager and wider hotel leadership team, you’ll ensure our restaurant, bar, room service, and events operations deliver consistently high guest satisfaction.

Your key responsibilities as Head Chef:

Lead the kitchen team with confidence and care

Create seasonal menus that showcase local produce while ensuring consistent quality and presentation

Maintain full Food Control Plan and Health & Safety compliance

Manage stock, purchasing, food costs, portion control, and efficient rostering Coach and develop the team, fostering a positive, respectful culture and supporting ongoing training

Contribute to overall business performance by achieving revenue and cost‑efficiency targets, supporting promotions, and upholding Copthorne’s values through collaborative, high‑standard service

What we're looking for:

Proven experience in a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef role

Strong kitchen management and food production skills

Excellent communication and leadership capability

Solid understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and food cost control

Ability to stay calm, organised, and solutions‑focused under pressure

Motivated and ambitious with a genuine passion for hospitality

Creative and innovative in your culinary approach

Reliable, honest, and committed to delivering quality

A natural team leader with a warm, approachable style

Customer‑focused with pride in presentation and service

You can look forward to:

A supportive and professional work environment

Opportunities to grow your career within Millennium Hotels & Resorts

A workplace immersed in the natural beauty of Queenstown

Staff benefits and hotel discounts across the group

A team culture built on respect, trust, and shared success

Shifts: AM - 5h00/5h30 start | PM - 13h30 start. Should be flexible to work rotational rosters which will include weekends and public holidays when necessary.

Salary PA: $80 000 - $85 000

Ready to lead with us? If you’re passionate about food, leadership, and creating unforgettable guest moments, we’d love to welcome you to our team!

Apply today with your CV and cover letter and take the next step in your culinary journey with Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Lakeview!