Martyn Lee waitrose

Source: Waitrose

Lee will head up a team of development chefs based at the Waitrose Food Innovation Studio

Waitrose has appointed a new executive chef as part of its ambition to be the “most innovative, high-quality food retailer” in the supermarket sector.

Martyn Lee will head up a team of development chefs based at the Waitrose Food Innovation Studio at its Bracknell headquarters, which was officially opened by the Prince of Wales in 2019.

Lee’s role will include developing the retailer’s own-brand ranges, some of which include Waitrose No.1, Heston from Waitrose and Cooks’ Ingredients.

Lee has held senior product development roles with a number of major food manufacturers and retailers, including, most recently, at Tesco. He was also previously senior development chef at meat processor Moy Park, which included spending a year collaborating with the Waitrose innovation team on new meat, fish and poultry product ranges.

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

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

Lee added: “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.”