Constellation Brands Inc., Victor, N.Y., announced several executive appointments across the organization to further bolster its business and support the company’s long-term growth strategies.
“These appointments illustrate the strength of leadership and the depth of talent at Constellation Brands,” said Rob Sands, president and chief executive officer of Constellation Brands, in a statement. “As we tap the next generation of Constellation leaders, we are strengthening our organization by making changes that allow for continued growth and development of our leaders while ensuring continuity that sustains and builds upon our dynamic growth. This is an exciting time for our company and our people as we build for our future.”
Bill Hackett, who has been with Constellation Brands since 1984 and served as president of beer, has been named to the new role of chairman of beer. Hackett will continue to report to Sands and remain a member of the Executive Management Committee. In his new role as chairman, Hackett will continue to provide guidance and insights on business strategies and long-term vision for the beer business.
Paul Hetterich has been named president of beer, and also will report to Sands. Hetterich has been with the company since 1986 and most recently served as executive vice president of corporate development and beer operations. In addition to his current responsibilities for beer operations, Hetterich will now have oversight for the commercial functions of the beer business as well.
Bruce Jacobson has been promoted to chief commercial officer of beer and will assume the additional responsibility of commercial operations reporting to Hetterich. Jacobson has led the beer division sales team since 2004.
“I am incredibly proud of what our beer business has achieved, but I’m even more excited about the future of our business,” said Bill Hackett, chairman of Constellation Brands’ Beer Division. “Over the years, we’ve built a strong team with a focus on developing the next generation of leaders. These promotions are a continuation of that process. This is the right time to make these changes. Our beer business is performing well and we have great momentum in the marketplace. I look forward to the continued success of our Beer Division.”
Bill Newlands has been named president of the Wine & Spirits Division and will continue to report to Sands. Newlands also will retain responsibility for the Growth Organization, which provides insights and innovation activities across the company. Ben Dollard, who most recently served as president of Constellation’s Canadian Business, has been named chief growth officer and will have responsibility across both the Beer and Wine & Spirits Divisions for driving the growth agenda. Dollard has been with Constellation since 2001 and has strong brand building, sales, marketing and production experience. Dollard will report to Newlands and also have reporting responsibility to Hetterich.
Jay Wright, currently president of Wine and Spirits, was named president of Constellation’s Canadian Business and will continue to report to Sands. Wright’s strong relationships and deep knowledge and understanding of the Canadian marketplace will help drive the continued growth of the Canadian business, the company says.
