HEAD CHEF | CASA PONSONBY
Auckland, New Zealand
Where Rodd & Gunn comes to life.
Something special is coming to Ponsonby.
Rodd & Gunn has always stood for quality, craftsmanship and a distinctly New Zealand sense of ease. Beyond the clothing, this philosophy extends to the places we create, the experiences we share and the genuine hospitality that brings people together.
Casa Ponsonby is a new expression of that philosophy, a place where the brand is experienced through hospitality, design, food, wine and genuine human connection.
A neighbourhood restaurant with its own distinct identity, Casa Ponsonby will be warm, relaxed, generous and full of character. A place to gather, settle in and stay a little longer than planned.
We're looking for a Head Chef to help bring our vision for Casa Ponsonby to life.
This is an opportunity for an ambitious, creative and hands-on chef to translate our food philosophy into exceptional cooking, a distinctive menu and a memorable guest experience.
We're looking for someone with a strong point of view, an instinct for big flavours and a genuine appreciation for simplicity done exceptionally well. A chef who understands that memorable dining doesn't need unnecessary formality, and that great food is as much about generosity, personality and the experience around the table as it is about what arrives on the plate.
The menu will be grounded in seasonal produce, confident cooking and dishes designed to be enjoyed together, from exceptional, post-traditional pizza and vibrant vegetable dishes to standout meats and seafood. Food with substance, made for good company.
The Opportunity
As Head Chef, you'll play a defining role in establishing Casa Ponsonby's kitchen culture, culinary identity and reputation.
You'll be responsible for:
Developing and delivering a compelling, seasonal menu aligned with Casa Ponsonby's established food philosophy.
Creating distinctive, generous and memorable dishes that reflect the restaurant's personality and The Lodge Group's commitment to quality.
Building relationships with outstanding local producers and suppliers.
Recruiting, developing and inspiring a passionate kitchen team.
Establishing a culture of creativity, accountability, pride and consistency.
Leading all aspects of kitchen operations, including food costs, labour, purchasing and profitability.
Working closely with The Lodge Group's leadership team to deliver a cohesive and memorable guest experience.
About You
You're an experienced chef and natural leader who cares as much about the atmosphere and culture of a restaurant as the food leaving the kitchen.
You'll bring a minimum of two years experience as a Head Chef in a premium dining venue, with a demonstrated ability to lead teams, maintain exceptional standards and deliver strong commercial results.
Experience in pizza preparation and production, including dough development, fermentation and cooking techniques, will be highly regarded. More importantly, you'll have the culinary knowledge and leadership skills to deliver an exceptional pizza offering alongside a broader, produce-driven menu.
You have strong culinary instincts, commercial awareness and the confidence to lead a new opening. You appreciate excellent ingredients, sound technique and bold, honest cooking.
You understand how to balance creativity with a clear culinary direction, bringing your own expertise and personality to the role while maintaining the consistency and standards expected across The Lodge Group.
Most importantly, you bring enthusiasm, curiosity and personality to your work, and understand that the best restaurants are built around great people, not just great menus.
Why Casa Ponsonby?
This is an opportunity to be part of something bigger than a restaurant opening, Casa Ponsonby represents an exciting new chapter in Rodd & Gunn's hospitality offering.
You'll have the opportunity to establish a restaurant with a genuine sense of place, build a team and culture from the outset, and create an experience that becomes part of the Ponsonby neighbourhood.
Our ambition is simple: to create a place people love, return to and remember. A restaurant with warmth, character and a spirit of hospitality that feels unmistakably Rodd & Gunn.
If you're excited by the opportunity to be part of something special, we'd love to hear from you.
Casa Ponsonby
Part of The Lodge Group