Lee will lead a team of development chefs based at the Waitrose Food and Innovation Studio at Bracknell Headquarters. Over £1.5 million was invested in the facility to increase the distinctive product range at Waitrose. 

Lee said: “Waitrose is known for pushing the boundaries on quality and delivering cutting edge innovation but also for its strong sourcing credentials - so it’s incredibly exciting to be joining the team. I’m looking forward to adding my own creativity to one of the UK’s most respected brands.” 

Previously Lee held senior product development roles with a number of major food manufacturers and retailers, including Tesco. He also worked for Moy Park as a senior development chef which included spending a year collaborating with the Waitrose innovation team on new meat, fish and poultry ranges. 

Natalie Mitchell, head of production innovation & own brand at Waitrose & Partners, added: “I’m delighted that one of the leading development chefs in the industry has joined Waitrose. 

“Martyn's wealth of experience and creative vision will help us to continue offering the high-quality and distinctive products our customers expect.”