Born into a farming family, Whitaker started a career in journalism before working in press relations.
In March 1985, he applied for the job of a press officer at the Royal Automobile Club Motor Sports Association until 1988.
[1] In mid-1996, Whitaker was appointed as Ford's head of the European Motorsport Program, succeeding Gillitzer whose contract was not renewed.
Whitaker covered the areas of Formula One, the World Rally Championship and local touring car series.
Martin Whitaker worked for FIA Presidents Jean-Marie Balestre and Max Mosley for Bernie Ecclestone's Formula One Management, McLaren International and as Director of Motorsport for Ford Motor Company.