USA. SSP America has been joined by well-known aviation industry leader Paul Brown as Senior Director of Brands and Concepts. The travel restaurateur is expanding its development team to meet the demands of its strong growth across airports in the US and Canada.
In his new position with SSP, he is responsible for identifying new restaurant concepts for the airport space and maintaining a portfolio of brand relationships in key markets.
A key part of Paul Brown’s brief is to develop local concepts which reflect what SSP America refers to as a ‘taste of place’
Brown will also lead the brand development process during the design and construction phase to ensure each concept is translated effectively into an airport setting.
Brown’s two most recent roles were as Jackson Municipal Airport Authority Chief Executive Officer and Assistant General Manager of Commercial Development at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where he had previously held the position of Director of Concessions.
Earlier in his career, Brown spent time as an independent contractor which saw him advise retail brands, restaurant firms and individuals in establishing relationships with key airport directors and executives. He also represented two national QSR brands and operated a portfolio of brands at Washington Reagan National Airport.
Brown said: “My 20-year-aviation career has included leadership positions at airports and with retailers, concessionaires, and brands. These experiences give me a great vantage point as I join the company’s renowned brands and concepts team.
“We’ll continue our focus on bringing brands to airports which are truly reflective of a particular region. I’m also really excited to be part of this incredible team of passionate professionals.”
Welcoming Brown’s appointment, SSP America Deputy Chief Executive Officer Pat Murray commented: “SSP America is expanding our team to keep up with our growth. I couldn’t be more excited to have Paul join our team. He’s a remarkable professional who has worked with our business from all sides at the highest of levels.
“His personality is infectious, and he is a wonderful additional to our young, growing company.”
As reported, Brown’s appointment follows another recent hire for SSP America in a Senior Director of Brands and Concepts role, Maria Martinez.
Note: The Moodie Davitt Report publishes the FAB Newsletter, which features highlights of openings, events and campaigns from around the world of airport and travel dining. Please email [email protected] to subscribe.
