News

Appointment latest in company’s efforts to manage growth in North America

SSP America, a leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations throughout North America, has appointed industry leader Pat Banducci as chief operating officer.

Banducci will be responsible for all operational aspects of SSP America’s restaurants throughout the United States and Canada. He will lead the implementation and execution of operational initiatives and training programs to create both the structure and staffing resources necessary to support the company’s continued growth.

Prior to joining SSP America, Banducci was the principal of Airport Hospitality Advisors, a travel dining and retail consultancy that provided strategic business development and operations advice to concession and restaurant companies in airports.

Banducci previously served in several management and executive leadership capacities over a 22 year career at HMSHost. From 2007-2011, he co-led Host’s North American business development group and, in 2010-2011, was also responsible for Host’s international development in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He then served as executive vice president and chief operating officer for Host’s North American business.

SSP America has enjoyed significant growth since its launch in North America in 2007, and the team has delivered a string of successes, including the recent openings of restaurants at JFK, Toronto, Phoenix, San Diego and Sacramento.

Commenting on the appointment, Michael Svagdis, chief executive officer of SSP America, said: “Pat has a proven track record professionally and is a well-established presence in our industry. His leadership style is ideal for our quickly growing company. I have tremendous confidence in his ability to focus on delivering an exceptional culinary experience to our guests while building a lasting partnership with our airport clients. I’m excited to welcome him to the team.”