Greencore has announced that Patrick Coveney has informed the board that he is stepping down from his role as director and chief executive officer.
He will resign from both positions effective 30 March 2022 to take up a senior leadership role in a different sector.
Commenting on this announcement Gary Kennedy, chair said, "On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our deep gratitude to Patrick [Coveney] for leading the business for the past 14 years and for transforming Greencore into the UK's leading convenience food business."
Search To Appoint New CEO
In a statement, the convenience foods firm said that a search process to appoint a new CEO will commence immediately.
In line with the Board's existing contingency plan and pending the appointment of a new CEO, Gary Kennedy, non-executive chair, will take a more active role in the business and will assume the role of executive chair from 31 March 2022, the company said.
Chief commercial officer, Kevin Moore will assume the role of deputy chief executive with immediate effect.
Intervening Period
Greencore noted that in the intervening period, Coveney will continue to lead the executive team as CEO.
"In the meantime, our experienced management team will continue to focus on the priorities of the business and we look forward to updating the market on performance and prospects on Tuesday at our FY21 results," Kennedy concluded.
New Role
Following Greencores announcement, SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations worldwide, announced the appointment of Coveney to the role of Group CEO, effective from 31 March 2022.
Mike Clasper, chair of SSP Groups board, said, "We are pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick [Coveney] who will join us as we emerge from the pandemic with considerable momentum."
"Patrick is a strong and strategic leader, combining this with proven financial and operational experience in some of the most competitive categories in the food sector," he said.
"His customer and colleague focus make him ideally placed to lead SSP to future success. Patrick will be well supported by Jonathan Davies, who together with the Executive Committee and Board will ensure we complete a smooth transition," Clasper added.
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