Head Chef and Sous Chef

Chouchou (pronounced “shoe shoe”) is an all-day cafe, bar and brasserie, trading from breakfast through dinner. Located on Wellington’s waterfront inside the newly refurbished Circa Theatre, our menu will be based around taking the French classics and adding; cheekiness, flair, fun and amazing presentation.

Having recently opened our doors, we’re seeking experienced Chefs to lead our kitchen on a full-time basis. Chouchou is an all day trading venue, we will guarantee a minimum of 30 hours per week.

• Calling all culinary visionaries! As Head Chef, you’ll be the heart and soul of the kitchen, leading your team with passion and creativity. You’ll cultivate a workplace that’s not only safe but also inspiring—where flavors shine, ideas flow, and teamwork thrives.
• With an innovative and market-leading approach, you’ll craft menus that dazzle taste buds while ensuring the operation runs like a well-seasoned machine. Success comes through smart cost and labor management, keeping everything financially sizzling.
• Your role will be hands-on and detail-driven, overseeing food safety and health regulations, mentoring and training an exceptional kitchen team, and keeping a keen eye on financial reporting. If you bring a positive attitude, a love for culinary excellence, and a knack for leading by example, this is your moment to make magic happen in the kitchen!

• Step into the role of Sous Chef and be the driving force behind a thriving kitchen! You’ll be the backbone of the team, leading with enthusiasm and expertise to ensure smooth and seamless service every day.
• Working side by side with the Head Chef, you’ll help steer kitchen operations with precision—overseeing food prep, guiding new team members, and stepping up to lead in the Head Chef’s absence. Your leadership will keep the kitchen humming, ensuring everyone is motivated, focused, and working in sync.
• Beyond the heat of the kitchen, you’ll play a vital role in keeping things financially sharp—managing costs and labor smartly to ensure success. If you love creating incredible food, inspiring a team, and keeping the energy high!

• At least 2 years experience working as a Head Chef in a similar style restaurant
• French cooking techniques
• Patisserie and pastry experience - desired
• Menu design experience that supports crossover between menus
• Strong labour and cost management
• Leadership role in an all day trading venue

• Respect for fellow team members
• Even temperament
• Customer focused
• Strong communication skills
• A sense of humour
• Champions having fun at work

If this opportunity has you excited about the possibility of being part of a fun and exciting new challenge, then please click apply now.

Applicants for this position should have a valid NZ work visa or are NZ Resident/Citizens.