(Alliance News) - SSP Group PLC has hired Greencore Group PLC's chief executive to be its next boss, the food and beverage outlets operator said on Thursday.
SSP, which operates chains including Upper Crust in travel locations, said it has appointed Patrick Coveney as CEO, effective March 31, 2022.
He joins from Greencore, a FTSE 250-listed producer of convenience foods in the UK and Ireland, where Coveney has been CEO since 2008.
SSP back in July reported that CEO Simon Smith would be leaving at the end of 2021. Jonathan Davies, in his role as deputy CEO and chief financial officer, will oversee day-to-day business prior to Coveney joining.
"We are pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick who will join us as we emerge from the pandemic with considerable momentum. 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 Chair Mike Clasper.
Greencore, in its own statement Thursday, unveiled Coveney's departure and said the search for his replacement will commence immediately.
Gary Kennedy, non-executive chair of Greencore, will move to an executive role until a new CEO is found. Chief Commercial Officer Kevin Moore will assume the role of deputy CEO with immediate effect.
Shares in SSP closed up 3.1% at 256.20 pence in London on Thursday, while Greencore rose 1.8% to 135.3p.
By Lucy Heming; lucyheming@alliancenews.com
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SSP Group (SSPG)
Greencore (GNC)