About us

Don’t just function, flourish. With EVT Connect Hospitality. The EVT Connect Hospitality team can be relied on for best-in-class insights into how to drive performance for the brand; from local talent development and operations, to driving market leading revenue strategies for third-party loyalty programs, distribution and brand standards.

About voco Queenstown

voco™ is a premium hotel brand within the IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio, delivering upscale accommodation and hospitality experiences.

Perfectly positioned on the corner of Stanley and Sydney Streets, our hotel sits moments from Queenstown’s boutique shops and vibrant dining scene, with easy access to legendary alpine playgrounds, world-class golf courses, and unforgettable day trips to Milford Sound. You’ll find it easy to settle into our thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, each showcasing voco™’s signature touches — plush bedding, luxe bathroom amenities and those little moments that make every stay brighter. Mediterranean-inspired Mozzarella & Co. brings fresh, flavourful fare from morning to night, while the Ember Outdoor Lounge offers fireside drinks under the stars — perfect for long chats and late-night sips. Enjoy laid-back breakfasts, a fully equipped gym

and sauna, ski-drying room, handy self-serve laundries and flexible meeting spaces for when work calls.

About the role

We are on the hunt for an energic and passionate culinary leader to join our pre-opening team and contribute to the launch of our brand-new restaurant, Mozzarella and Co. Working closely with General Manager, this role offers the exciting opportunity to make your mark on our new concept.  You will oversee all kitchen operations, develop innovative menus, and deliver exceptional guest experiences while managing costs, quality, and team performance. The ideal candidate combines strong leadership skills with a passion for culinary excellence and the ability to inspire and develop a high-performing team.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the kitchen and stewarding teams, fostering a positive, collaborative, and high-performance environment.
• Plan, design, and execute creative menus and food presentations for all dining outlets, buffets, functions, and special events.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including preparation, mise-en-place, inventory management, food costing, and quality control.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and events teams to plan and execute culinary offerings that enhance revenue and guest satisfaction.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, hygiene, and environmental regulations.
• Monitor financial performance, including food cost, labor, and operational budgets, implementing strategies to maximise profitability.
• Maintain high standards of guest service, including prompt resolution of guest issues and consistent delivery of culinary excellence.
• Drive staff training, skills development, and cross-functional collaboration to maintain operational efficiency and innovation.

Qualifications & experience

• Trade-qualified chef with proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a high-volume, premium hospitality environment.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience managing kitchens in hotels, resorts, or fine dining establishments.
• Demonstrated leadership and team development skills, with experience mentoring apprentices and kitchen staff.
• Strong financial acumen, including menu pricing, food cost control, and budgeting.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Creative, innovative, and passionate about delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
• In-depth knowledge of hospitality standards, health & safety regulations, and industry best practices.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining a positive, approachable demeanor.

Benefits

• Make your mark in a Global Company at a time of growth.
• Endless Career Development opportunities.
• Access to Industry Accommodation and Dining discounts from day 1.

We strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand.