LONDON, UK – SSP Group has announced the appointment of Satya-Christophe Menard as the new CEO for its Continental Europe business. Menard joins SSP today with a 20-year track record in the service industry, including extensive experience in the food and coffee business across a number of European and North American countries.
Most recently, he worked as president of the out-of-home division of coffee company JDE Peet’s and prior to this he was global CEO of Sodexo’s schools and universities division. He also held leadership positions across various Sodexo’s divisions internationally.
With considerable experience of creating profitable growth strategies in B2B and B2B2C companies, and of leading international and diverse teams, Menard will work with colleagues across France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Italy, Spain, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Estonia and Iceland to continue to accelerate growth and profit, and partner with clients and brands to develop market-leading food and beverage offers.
Commenting on the appointment, Patrick Coveney, Group CEO of SSP, said: “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.”
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 will officially transition into his new role on 14th October following a handover period with current CEO for Continental Europe, Jeremy Fennell, who will move to the role of Group Chief Operating Officer, working with the Executive Committee to enhance SSP’s capabilities in areas including digital and technology, customer, commercial and supply chain.
*As at 30 September 2023
