NORTH AMERICA. SSP Group has named highly-respected, long-serving senior executive Pat Murray as CEO of its SSP America division with immediate effect. He succeeds Michael Svagdis, who is leaving to pursue a new opportunity outside the group after a decade of leadership.
Murray joined SSP America in 2007 as VP of Business Development and became Deputy CEO of the business in 2022.
SSP noted that he brings “a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in the travel food & beverage industry and has been instrumental in the exceptional recent growth of the business”.
Murray has played a critical role in SSP America’s strategy of delivering a ‘taste of place’ to North American airports, building alliances with local brands, culinary professionals and leading restauranteurs. Outside SSP, Murray also served as the inaugural Board Chair of the Airport Restaurant & Retail Association, and currently holds the role of Vice Chair of the ACI World Associates Board.
The North American market is a strategic priority for SSP, and in the year ended 30 September 2024 it delivered revenue growth of +22%, accounting for nearly a quarter of total group revenues. SSP America operates in 53 of the busiest airports in North America.
SSP Group CEO Patrick Coveney said: “I’m delighted to be announcing Pat Murray as SSP America’s new CEO. North America is a hugely important, high-growth market for the Group, and Pat’s exceptional leadership qualities and industry experience make him the ideal person to drive the business forward as we capitalise on the growth opportunities that we see ahead of us.
“His appointment also provides seamless continuity following the departure of Michael Svagdis, who I would like to sincerely thank for his outstanding service and contribution to SSP over the past decade. We wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.”
Murray said: “I am truly honoured to be leading SSP America into its next chapter. The success of SSP lies in its people, and it is their creativity, leadership and passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences for travellers that sets us apart as a business. I look forward to continuing our journey of growth and innovation with this incredible team, and to delivering the best part of the journey for our customers.”
Pat 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 the SSP role, but also to the industry at large. He was also praised for his generosity of time and expertise to staff at all levels. 
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