Head Chef Opportunity

Head Chef Opportunity | Republic Hospitality Group | Cromwell

Ready to lead a kitchen, bring your ideas to the table and take the next step in your culinary career?

Republic Hospitality Group is expanding into Cromwell, and we're looking for an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at The Victoria Arm Hotel as we prepare to take over the venue in mid-November 2026.

A local favourite, The Victoria Arm Hotel offers a welcoming pub atmosphere, a restaurant and bar, and a varied menu for locals and visitors alike. From classic pub favourites to signature Stonegrill dining, there's an established food offering to build on, with plenty of opportunity to introduce your own ideas and help shape what's next.

About the Role

You'll oversee the day-to-day running of the kitchen, from menu development and food quality to team leadership and kitchen performance. Working closely with the Venue Manager and our Group Kitchen Manager, you'll have the support of our wider operational and head office teams to help you deliver great food and build a strong kitchen team.

This is a permanent, full-time position based at The Victoria Arm Hotel in Cromwell, with a guaranteed 45 hours per week.

What You'll Bring

Experience leading a team in a busy commercial kitchen.

A passion for great food, menu development and consistent quality.

Knowledge of food costing, stock control and kitchen operations.

The ability to motivate, develop and bring the best out of your team.

A hands-on approach and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

A commitment to food safety and creating a positive kitchen culture.

Why Join Us?

We're a growing hospitality group with 15 venues across the Queenstown-Lakes region, soon to be 16 with the addition of The Victoria Arm Hotel. We're passionate about great hospitality, supporting our teams and creating opportunities for people to grow.

We offer

$80,000–$100,000 salary, depending on skills and experience.

Performance-based bonus opportunities.

The opportunity to shape the food offering at an established Cromwell venue.

Ongoing training and genuine career progression across our venues.

Support from experienced kitchen and operational leaders.

Staff discounts across Republic Hospitality Group venues.

* A supportive team culture built around our values of Care, Grow and Fun.

Apply Now

Ready to make your mark in Cromwell? We'd love to hear from you!

Apply with your CV and a brief cover letter telling us about your experience and what you'd bring to the kitchen.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand or eligible to obtain the appropriate work visa.