Patrick Coveney is stepping down from his Chief Executive role at convenience food maker Greencore to take charge of the SSP Group, owner of the Upper Crust sandwich chain.
Coveney will leave Greencore at the end of March next year after a difficult 18 months when mobility restrictions during the pandemic hit demand for food-to-go products in supermarkets and convenience stores. The company said the search to appoint a new Chief Executive would commence immediately, with Chief Commercial Officer Kevin Moore now assuming the role of deputy CEO.
At SSP, Coveney will replace Simon Smith, who announced in July that he would be leaving the business in December. He has guided SSP through an equally difficult period when travel restrictions impacted demand in its outlets located at train stations and airports.
“Patrick is a strong and strategic leader, combining this with proven financial and operational experience in some of the most competitive categories in the food sector,” said SSP Chairman Mike Clasper.
Coveney added: “The business has a strong Board, a highly experienced leadership team and thousands of dedicated colleagues across the world. It also has a clear strategy, deep relationships with client and brand partners, and a robust balance sheet. I look forward to working with the teams to seize the many opportunities that lie ahead and to delivering future growth and returns for SSP and its shareholders.”
