UK travel food and beverage operator SSP Group has announced plans for Mike Clasper to step down as chairman and director.
This decision will take effect at the end of its annual general meeting (AGM) on January 23, 2026.
Patrick Coveney, CEO of SSP Group, said: “I would like to personally thank Mike for his considerable service to SSP and for his commitment, insight and support.
“He has presided over the business through a period of considerable change, helping to recover the business following the Covid-related travel shutdown and strengthening our footprint with our customers and partners across the world. »
The board began a search for her successor, led by independent lead director Carolyn Bradley.
If no appointment is made by the 2026 AGM, Bradley will serve as Acting President.
She said: “The in-depth chair search will focus on candidates with the experience to lead the board and work with management to drive strategy and execution as we enter the next phase of delivery. During this interim period, we will take steps to ensure strong governance and oversight. »
Clasper joined the SSP as a non-executive director and chairman designate in November 2019 and was appointed chairman in February 2020.
He said: “It has been a privilege to chair SSP. As a Board of Directors, we are finalizing SSP’s multi-year strategic and operational roadmap to build on its strong foundations and accelerate shareholder value creation.
“To enable the appointment of a new president who can help realize all of these ambitions in the years to come, I believe the time has come to announce that I will be stepping down from the SSP, bringing forward my planned retirement by one year.
SSP operates more than 3,000 points of sale in 38 countries, mainly in airports, train stations and other travel hubs.
Its formats include sit-down and quick-service restaurants, bars, cafes, lounges and food-focused convenience stores.
The group operates various food and beverage brands, including Upper Crust and Ritazza.
“SSP Group Chairman Mike Clasper to step down in 2026” was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a brand owned by GlobalData.
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