Tops names new SVP of operations

John McCaffrey has been with Tops since 2010.

Tops Friendly Markets has announced a new addition to its leadership.

The grocer has promoted John McCaffrey, a 44-year grocery industry veteran, to the role of senior VP of operations. He will officially begin his new role in February 2025, succeeding Mike Patti, who will be retiring after 52 years of service at Tops.

As senior VP, McCaffrey will oversee operations for Tops’ 152 stores, including one franchise location, and 58 fuel stations across New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont. McCaffrey joined the grocer in 2010, and most recently served as regional VP for Tops’ East region, a role he has excelled in since 2014. In his new role as senior Vice President, Operations, McCaffrey will report directly to Tops president Ron Ferri.

“John’s extensive experience and unwavering commitment to excellence make him the ideal leader to take on this critical role,” said Ferri. “We are excited for the vision and leadership he brings to this position, ensuring Tops continues to thrive and grow.”

Tops added that over the course of his career, Patti made a significant impact across a variety of roles, including store manager, district manager, regional VP for both the East and West regions from 2010-2023, and most recently as senior VP of operations. Among his many contributions in support of Tops’ expansion, Patti oversaw the successful conversions of Penn Traffic stores in 2010 and Grand Union stores in 2012 and the opening of the flagship Tops International store in 1991.

“We are deeply grateful for Mike Patti’s extraordinary contributions to Tops Friendly Markets,” added Ferri. “While we will miss his leadership, his commitment to our customers, colleagues and communities will remain a guiding force for many years to come.”