Tops Friendly Markets has appointed John McCaffrey, a 44-year grocery industry veteran, to the role of SVP of operations.
McCaffrey, who will begin his new role in February, succeeds Mike Patti, who is retiring after 52 years with Tops.
As SVP, McCaffrey will oversee operations for Tops’ 152 stores, including one franchise location, and 58 fuel stations across New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont, driving growth and innovation within the network.
“John’s extensive experience and unwavering commitment to excellence make him the ideal leader to take on this critical role,” said Ron Ferri, president of Tops Friendly Markets. “We are excited for the vision and leadership he brings to this position, ensuring Tops continues to thrive and grow.”
McCaffrey joined Tops in February 2010. He began his career in the grocery retail industry as a part-time associate and stock clerk for P&C Foods in Rome, New York.
Over the years, he has held a variety of leadership positions for Tops, including store management, marketing manager, director of in-store merchandising and planning and senior director of store operations. Most recently, he had served as regional VP for Tops’ East region since 2014.
“From a part-time stock clerk to senior vice president, this career journey has helped me gain a deep understanding of customers’ needs and expectations, the intricate and evolving operations of grocery stores and the many ways our communities depend on us,” McCaffrey said.
“As I take on this expanded leadership role, I’m feeling honored, well-prepared and fortunate to be surrounded by an incredible group of leaders throughout Tops’ stores and corporate offices.”
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Throughout Patti’s career, he has held a variety of roles, including store manager, district manager, regional VP for both the East and West regions from 2010-23, and most recently as SVP.
Among his contributions, Patti oversaw the conversions of Penn Traffic stores in 2010 and Grand Union stores in 2012, as well as the opening of the flagship Tops International store in 1991.
Patti has received numerous accolades, including the Armond Castellani Award in 2006, which recognizes outstanding Tops employees whose contributions are defined by their achievements as well as all they have helped their colleagues accomplish.
Patti’s legacy includes leadership during critical moments, such as coordinating emergency response efforts following the fatal shootings in 2022 at the Jefferson Avenue store.
“We are deeply grateful for Mike Patti’s extraordinary contributions to Tops Friendly Markets,” Ferri added. “While we will miss his leadership, his commitment to our customers, colleagues and communities will remain a guiding force for many years to come.”
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