John A. Catsimatidis

Vice Chairman

John A. Catsimatidis serves as Vice Chairman of the Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation and brings to FEHSF a remarkable record of entrepreneurship, civic leadership, media ownership, philanthropy, and support for public safety.

Mr. Catsimatidis is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Red Apple Group, a diversified private company with holdings across energy, aviation, retail, real estate, media, and related business sectors. From his early years in the grocery business, he built Red Apple into a major enterprise that now employs thousands of people, including a significant workforce in New York City.

A self-made business leader, Mr. Catsimatidis is widely known for his ownership of Gristedes, his leadership of United Refining, and his investments in real estate and media. Forbes notes that he is best known as the owner of the New York City supermarket chain Gristedes and also owns United Refining and real estate holdings in New York and beyond.

Mr. Catsimatidis has also become an influential voice in American media. Through Red Apple Media, he acquired 77 WABC Radio and expanded the platform’s reach through additional stations and Red Apple Audio Networks. He hosts The Cats Roundtable and co-hosts Cats & Cosby, using the platform to engage leaders from government, business, public policy, medicine, media, and civic life. In 2025, the New York State Broadcasters Association named him its Broadcaster of the Year.

Beyond business, Mr. Catsimatidis has maintained a longstanding commitment to philanthropy and public service. His official biography notes his decades-long support for the Police Athletic League and his service on boards and civic organizations, including Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, the Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund, and volunteer leadership within the Greek Orthodox Church.

As Vice Chairman of FEHSF, Mr. Catsimatidis helps strengthen the Foundation’s ability to bring private-sector leadership, civic commitment, and philanthropic support to law enforcement and national security professionals and their families in times of crisis. His leadership reflects the heart of FEHSF’s mission: when the men and women who protect this nation face tragedy, hardship, injury, illness, or sudden loss, their families should never stand alone.