USA. Pat Murray, one of the most experienced and highly respected senior executives in the North American travel dining sector, has taken the decision to leave his role as CEO at SSP America to pursue a freelance career in the aviation sector.
With immediate effect, Deputy CEO George Mboya is taking on the role of interim CEO at SSP America. In due course, the company said it plans a formal process to identify a permanent successor for Murray.
An SSP statement shared with The Moodie Davitt Report said: “Having worked at SSP America for almost 20 years and most recently as CEO for the region, Pat has come to the conclusion that his heart is in business development, and that’s where he wants to focus his time. He will continue to support SSP Group and SSP America as a strategic business development advisor.”
George Mboya has been with SSP America since 2017, stepping up to become Chief Financial Officer in 2019. He was promoted to Deputy Chief Executive Officer earlier this year.
As reported, Murray assumed the role of CEO in January this year after succeeding Michael Svagdis. Murray joined SSP America in 2007 as VP of Business Development and became Deputy CEO of the business in 2022.
Murray was honoured with the Outstanding Career Contribution Award by The Moodie Davitt Report at the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards in Bangkok in September 2023.
At that event, the much-admired leader was singled out as a pioneer for his ability to preempt trends, forge successful partnerships and for his “extraordinary commitment” to not only SSP, but also to the industry at large. He was also praised for his generosity of time and expertise to staff at all levels. 
