About the role Te Mata Figs is seeking an experienced and talented Lead Chef to join our team at The Figgery in Havelock North, Hawkes Bay. As the Lead Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations and ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation. This is a full-time position, offering the opportunity to create and develop exciting new food offerings that appeal to our customers, reinforcing The Figgery Cafe is a leader in innovative, gluten-free, fig-inspired cuisine. What you'll be doing Creating and implementing innovative seasonal menus that showcase the finest local, fresh ingredients, with a focus on incorporating figs or fig-based productsPreparing key menu dishes and savoury cabinet food items as well as managing or supervising the preparation of various other food itemsOverseeing the preparation and cooking of all meal components, maintaining strict adherence to health, safety and quality standardsServing as the Cafe chef on Saturdays and SundaysWorking with our weekday cafe chef and other cafe staff fostering a positive and collaborative work environmentManaging kitchen operations, including stock control, budgeting and cost controlCollaborating with the management team to identify opportunities for innovation and growthEnsuring the kitchen is maintained to the highest levels of cleanliness and organisationMaintaining records as required under the MPI registered Food Control PlanWhat we're looking for Extensive experience as a Chef in a high-quality hospitality establishmentProven track record of creating and executing successful seasonal menusExcellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop your teamStrong understanding of food cost control, budgeting and inventory managementPassion for using the best local, seasonal ingredients and a commitment to sustainable sourcingExcellent communication and problem-solving skillsFormal culinary training or qualifications in the hospitality industryWhat we offer At Te Mata Figs, we are committed to providing a supportive and nurturing work environment. You'll enjoy a competitive salary, opportunities for professional development, and a range of employee benefits to support your work-life balance. The role is permanent 30-35 hours. Join our team and be a part of our exciting journey as we continue to grow and innovate in the hospitality industry. About us The Figgery Cafe is a family-owned hospitality business located in the heart of Hawke's Bay, known for our innovative, gluten-free, fig-inspired cuisine. Our mission is to showcase the best of local, seasonal produce and to create a warm and welcoming dining experience for all our guests. We take great pride in our reputation as one of the leading hospitality establishments in the region. Apply now to become our next Lead Chef and be a part of the The Figgery Cafe story. Applicants for this position must have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.