Job Description

Full-time | Monday-Friday (7a.m-4p.m)

About Loft Studios

Loft Studios is a well-established photography, film, and events venue based in West London. We operate a busy in-house catering service, providing fresh, seasonal food for photo and film shoots, as well as occasional corporate events and private hires. Our ethos is rooted in creativity, sustainability, and delivering consistently high-quality meals in a fast-paced but friendly studio environment.

The Role

We're looking for an experienced and organised Head Chef to lead our small kitchen team and take ownership of our daily catering service. You'll be responsible for planning and preparing breakfast and lunch for 15-75 guests depending on bookings, with an average of around 35 covers per day, Monday to Friday. The majority of catering is served buffet-style, with occasional bespoke plated services.

You'll work alongside a Sous Chef or CDP, with the flexibility to adjust staffing levels according to demand. The role is hands-on and best suited to a chef who enjoys working with quality ingredients in a creative environment rather than high-volume restaurant service.

Responsibilities

Lead day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring high-quality food preparation and presentation. Develop and update menus in collaboration with management, keeping them fresh, seasonal, and cost-effective. Manage ordering, stock control, and supplier relationships. Maintain food safety, hygiene, and allergen standards. Supervise and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring efficiency and clear communication. Oversee occasional location catering (boxed meals and breakfasts) for a nearby studio client. Manage prep and clean-down in a small, efficient kitchen setup (no KP on site).

Requirements

Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef. Strong organisational and leadership skills, able to plan ahead and adapt to fluctuating workloads. A passion for fresh, seasonal food with a good eye for presentation. Calm under pressure with great attention to detail. Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate or higher. Flexibility to support occasional weekend shoots (very infrequent).

Schedule

Monday to Friday, approx. 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Rare weekend work (around once every two months).

Benefits

Salary to be negotiated depending on experience Creative working environment within a respected London studio Balanced weekday schedule with limited evening or weekend hours Opportunity to shape menus and have creative input

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short cover note outlining your experience and why you'd be a great fit for Loft Studios.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Cycle to work scheme Sick pay
Work Location: In person