Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Matthew Luke

Brentwood,Essex

Summary

Accomplished bakery professional with expertise in sourdough bread production, laminated dough, and viennoiserie. Originally trained as a creative professional, I bring a strong sense of artistry and innovation to baking, having successfully pivoted my career into the craft of bread and pastry. Skilled in recipe development, workflow optimisation, and supplier management, I am passionate about refining my craft and eager to learn from leading institutions in order to grow further as a baker and pastry chef.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education

Work history

Head Baker

Levain Bakehouse
Brentwood, Essex
03.2025 - Current

Currently leading production of breads, laminated pastries, and viennoiserie for artisanal bakery startup.


  • Mixed, shaped, and baked sourdough, focaccia, baguettes, and brioche using natural fermentation.
  • Solely produced all laminated pastry products, croissants, pain au chocolat, pain aux raisins, kouign-amann, twice baked flavoured croissants (primarily almond) and various classic Danish pastries (primarily spandauer).
  • Created tarts and sponges from scratch, utilising traditional techniques.
  • Prepared creme patisserie, frangipane, compotes, and curds.
  • Streamlined baking processes through strategic planning to optimise production efficiency.
  • Designed workflow for retarder/proofers and oven programmes ensuring timely delivery.
  • Adhered to rigorous food safety protocols to maintain health standards.

Baker

Happy Toast Bakery
Southampton, Hampshire
11.2023 - 03.2025

Contributed to fast-paced independent bakery to advance expertise in sourdough and viennoiserie.


  • Produced a wide range of artisanal breads, pastries, and baked goods for wholesale and retail customers.
  • Specialized in sourdoughs, laminated doughs, and seasonal products.
  • Supported production efficiency and consistency in a busy bakery environment.

Freelance Creative Director

Matthew Luke Ltd
Hackney, London
01.2020 - 06.2023

Freelance digital creative director managing briefs for creation of digital experiences within fashion, publishing and art sectors.


  • Provided consultation on digital design and creative direction.
  • Created bespoke websites and interactive experiences using JavaScript.
  • Collaborated with design agencies to fulfil complex creative briefs.

Cofounder and Creative Director

Chaptr
Southampton, Hampshire
01.2013 - 01.2020

Education

Bachelor of Laws - Law

King's College London
London
09.2009 - 09.2013

Skills

  • Sourdough bread production
  • Laminated dough and viennoiserie
  • Recipe development
  • Bakery workflow and efficiency
  • Supplier and stock management

Timeline

Head Baker

Levain Bakehouse
03.2025 - Current

Baker

Happy Toast Bakery
11.2023 - 03.2025

Freelance Creative Director

Matthew Luke Ltd
01.2020 - 06.2023

Cofounder and Creative Director

Chaptr
01.2013 - 01.2020

Bachelor of Laws - Law

King's College London
09.2009 - 09.2013
Matthew Luke