Tops appoints SVP of operations

Williamsville, N.Y.-Tops Friendly Markets says it has promoted John McCaffrey, a 44-year grocery industry veteran, to senior vice president of operations.

McCaffrey, who will officially begin his new role in February, will oversee operations for Tops’ 152 stores, including one franchise location, and 58 fuel stations across New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont, according to a news release. The retailer said he will rely on his leadership skills, operational expertise and dedication to delivering outstanding customer experiences to drive growth and innovation within Tops Friendly Markets’ expansive store 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 for Tops Friendly Markets. “We are excited for the vision and leadership he brings to this position, ensuring Tops continues to thrive and grow.”

McCaffrey, who joined Tops in February 2010, has a 44-year career in the grocery retail industry. He began as a part-time associate and stock clerk for P&C Foods in Rome, N.Y. 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 has served as regional vice president for Tops’ east region since 2014.

In his new role as senior vice president, operations, McCaffrey will report directly to Ferri.

“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.”

A graduate of Canton College, McCaffrey holds associate degrees in both engineering and business management.

McCaffrey will succeed Mike Patti, who will be retiring after 52 years of service to Tops, the release said.

Tops said that throughout Patti’s career he has made a significant impact across a variety of roles, including store manager, district manager, regional vice president for both the east and west regions from 2010-2023, and most recently as senior vice president. Among his many contributions in support of Tops’ expansion, Patti oversaw the conversions of Penn Traffic stores in 2010 and Grand Union stores in 2012 and the opening of the flagship Tops International store in 1991, the release said.

Patti's career has been marked by numerous accolades, including the Armond Castellani Award in 2006, which is bestowed by Tops to outstanding associates whose lasting contributions are equally defined by their own achievements and all they have helped their colleagues accomplish, the release said. The company said his legacy includes his compassionate leadership during critical moments, such as coordinating emergency response efforts following the devastating events at the Jefferson Avenue store in Buffalo, N.Y., in 2022, the release said.

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