London-based SSP Group has announced the appointment of Satya-Christophe Menard as its new CEO for its continental Europe business, bringing more than two decades of service industry expertise to the role.
Menard's extensive background includes significant positions in the food and coffee sectors across the European and North American markets.
Menard's most recent role was as president of the out-of-home division at coffee company JDE Peet’s, following his tenure as global CEO of Sodexo’s schools and universities division.
His career also includes leadership roles in international divisions of Sodexo.
With a track record of driving profitable growth in B2B [business-to-business] and B2B2C [business-to-business-to-consumer] companies and managing diverse international teams, Menard is poised to lead SSP's operations across numerous European countries.
SSP Group CEO Patrick Coveney expressed confidence in Menard's abilities, stating: “Satya’s outstanding business skills and deep, relevant international experience will help us continue to maintain our strong regional and in-market leadership, which is central to our strategy, business model and culture. We’re certain that he will make a very valuable contribution to our business, and we look forward to welcoming him to the team.”
In response to his appointment, Satya-Christophe Menard said, “I’m delighted to join SSP as the new CEO for Continental Europe, leading the strategic direction for the region and joining the Group Executive Team at this exciting time in the company’s journey. Continental Europe is SSP’s largest division by sales, operating around 1,200 units and employing nearly 15,000 colleagues, and I’m looking forward to working with a diverse team across 14 countries.”
Menard is set to assume his new responsibilities on 14 October 2024, following a transition period with the current CEO for Continental Europe, Jeremy Fennell.
Fennell will take on the role of group chief operating officer, focusing on enhancing SSP's capabilities in digital and technology, customer relations, commercial strategy and supply chain management.
The announcement comes as SSP continues to expand its presence in the foodservice industry, having recently collaborated with Starbucks and Heathrow Airport to open a new Starbucks outlet at Heathrow's Terminal 5.
