Catering and Functions Manager - Chef

Ko wai mātou | About us as an organisation

At Te Kura Matatini ki Otago / Otago Polytechnic, a business division of Te Pūkenga, we are committed to attracting, developing and retaining kaimahi (staff) who are passionate, creative, future-focused and dedicated to help set the direction for quality vocational and applied learning to meet tomorrow’s needs.

We are guided by our values and we are proud to be Rainbow Tick certified. We aspire to create a working environment that is inclusive and meets the aspirations of mana whenua ensuring equity for Māori and increasing access for all.

Mō te tūraka mahi | About the role

This dual role leads the kitchen, cafe, catering and functions teams at Otago Polytechnic ensuring the delivery of these commercial operations is first-class. The second part of the position is as a Chef where you will be rostered on shifts. You will oversee and assist in the production of cooking delicious and nutritious meals for our residents at Te Pā Tauira Student Village and other commercial catering for Eden Cafe and offsite and onsite events.

Ko wai koe | About you

You will have leadership experience in a kitchen role (ideally as a trained chef), strong organisational skills, along with a passion for providing outstanding culinary products.

You will be a highly motivated team player who is outcomes focussed, and has proven analytical and problem‑solving abilities who is able to effectively prioritise and execute tasks to a high standard. You will demonstrate excellent communication skills and above all, a positive 'can do' attitude.

You will have a willingness to grow your teams knowledge and skill level through mentoring, training and motivation. You’ll enjoy being in a busy work environment that commercial kitchens are.

You will demonstrate experience in creating cost effective menus and working closely with front‑of‑house kaimahi (staff) to ensure a seamless, efficient service.

You will need to be flexible regarding hours and enjoy being part of a dynamic team while maintaining high standards of quality control, hygiene and health and safety.

The successful applicant will uphold our organisation’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi by continuously developing and upholding your understanding of our obligations and connection with Te Tiriti as an individual and as an organisation.

Through recognition, empowerment and inclusion, you will give greater acknowledgement to the unmet needs of Māori, Pasifika and disabled people and their whanau.

You will have demonstrable health and safety best practices and enjoy being part of a team who support each other. You will easily be able to build and maintain relationships and communicate well via email, phone and face‑to‑face.

For specific information please contact Vanya Thurston or

To apply please click on the link.

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