SSP America Promotes Anthony F. Montepare to Chief Procurement Officer

Through Tony’s leadership, and in just two short years, he has built a successful purchasing solution which provides SSP America a highly skilled purchasing staff, state-of-the-art supply chain data, programs and product solutions. These solutions are, then, tied to nationally recognized distributors and manufacturers and enhanced communications between departments which produces outstanding results.

The SSP America procurement team’s primary objectives are to ensure food safety, traceability, consistent quality, innovation and value in a socially responsible manner. The procurement team, in conjunction with our culinary, operations and marketing divisions, have a passion for great food, engaging design and inspired service. They will continue to collaborate in our efforts to transform North American airports into culinary destinations.

A 30-year food service veteran, Tony has held executive positions in some of the industry’s largest and most successful companies. He was vice president of business needs for the healthcare, business and industry channels of Foodbuy LLC, a member of the global food service management company, Compass Group USA. Tony was part of a leadership team that delivered 16 consecutive years of successful purchasing results tied to over $4 billion in channel-managed volumes.

Prior to Foodbuy and Compass Group, Tony was the southeast division vice president of procurement and marketing for Alliant/US Food Distribution.  In this position, Tony was a member of the executive committee that established all branded product specifications for the company as well as achieving all financial results. Tony also served as director of purchasing for Sysco’s food service distribution operations based in Albany, N.Y. During his tenure there, the Albany distribution division achieved Sysco’s prestigious Master Merchandiser award.

When asked about his promotion, Tony commented: “SSP America has positioned itself uniquely in the marketplace as the go-to partner for North American airport executives who want to bring cool restaurants to their airport. I’m extremely glad we were able to help this growing company manage its astonishing growth. I’m humbled by this promotion and the support I have received from my fellow executives both here in America and globally, as well as the expert team of purchasing professionals we’ve assembled in such a short period of time.”

Michael Svagdis, chief executive officer of SSP America, said: “Tony’s leadership and deep understanding of the food service industry has ensured SSP America could stand up a world-class procurement program. Tony’s commitment and understanding of culinary needs, marketing trends and operating patterns will continue to help us harness the expertise of North America’s best suppliers and optimize quality while we add profit for all of our airport partners.”