Constellation Brands names Alex Alvarez beer

Constellation Brands has appointed Alex Alvarez as its new Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer for its beer division. The alcoholic beverage maker, which produces Corona and Modelo, announced the appointment in an August 25 press release, with Alvarez set to start on September 14.

He will take over from John Kester, who plans to retire in November after three years in the role. Alvarez will report directly to Jim Sabia, the Executive Vice President and President of Constellation's beer division.

Leadership Transition and Responsibilities

In his new position, Alvarez will lead the end-to-end supply chain organization for Constellation's beer business. His responsibilities will include oversight of manufacturing, procurement, planning, logistics, and distribution operations.

Jim Sabia welcomed the appointment in the company's statement. "Alex is an accomplished supply chain executive with a proven track record of leading complex global operations, building high-performing teams, and delivering transformational business results," Sabia said. He added that Alvarez's expertise would help strengthen capabilities and position the division for long-term growth.

Alvarez's Industry Experience

Alex Alvarez brings over three decades of operations and supply chain management experience to the role, according to the release. His career is deeply rooted in the alcoholic beverage industry.

He most recently served for three years as SVP and Chief Supply Chain Officer at Suntory Global Spirits, where he managed a global network including 18 distilleries. Prior to that, Alvarez spent 16 years at Brown-Forman, the company behind Jack Daniel's, holding several leadership roles. His career also includes experience at major consumer packaged goods firms General Mills and Procter & Gamble.

Kester's Legacy

Outgoing executive John Kester is retiring after 12 years with Constellation Brands. He spent his first nine years as SVP of Operations Services before leading the beer supply chain for the past three.

The company credited Kester with building a centralized procurement function, integrating key manufacturing assets, and constructing a fully integrated end-to-end supply chain. Sabia acknowledged this contribution, stating, "John's leadership has been instrumental in the growth and evolution of our beer business over the past decade."

Alvarez will now be tasked with steering this established supply chain organization for the beer maker.