News

SSP America a division of SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, has appointed Heather Barry as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships.

In her new role, Heather will be responsible for SSP America’s development and strategic airport business diversity plans and program efforts across the company’s North American operations. These efforts will provide SSP America with operational and performance initiatives designed to enhance and advance SSP’s DBE/ACDBE (minority/women) business efforts.

Known throughout the aviation industry as a highly effective public administrator, Heather brings over 18 years of airport leadership as well as legislative experience to the SSP America team.

Heather most recently served as Director of Business Affairs at Denver International where she established and led the gateway’s Commerce Hub, part of the DEN Executive Office, which works to promote a transparent and competitive business environment by creating opportunities for the wider aviation business community. Heather also served as DEN’s Director of Government Affairs and External Relations, and, served in senior legislative positions under two, consecutive Denver Mayors— Guillermo (Bill) Vidal and John W. Hickenlooper.

Heather holds a Bachelor of Arts, Communications Degree from the University of Washington and a Masters of Public Administration from The Evergreen State College, as well as professional certifications from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. She is the recipient of the Airport Minority Advisory Council, Organization of the Year, as well as the Federal Aviation Administration Award for Minority and Small Business Advocacy.

Pat Murray, Executive Vice President of Business Development for SSP America, said: “Today, SSP America has more than 75 strategic relationships with joint venture partners, ACDBEs, subtenant operators and community organizers. We are delighted to welcome Heather Barry to our growing SSP America development team. Heather brings a highly unique skillset to SSP America having both extensive, first-hand airport business development as well as City Hall experience. SSP America is proud to maintain lasting, quality relationships with all of our airport and business partners; Heather’s unparalleled experience in this position will add even further depth and innovation to these partnerships as SSP continues to grow across our North American operations.”