Constellation Brands announces CEO transition

Constellation Brands Inc. has named Nicholas Fink as its next president and CEO, effective April 13, marking a leadership transition at one of the Rochester region’s largest publicly traded companies. 

Fink, who has served on Constellation’s board since 2021, will succeed Bill Newlands, who has led the company as president and CEO since 2019. Fink will continue to serve on the board. Newlands will step down from both roles on April 13 and remain on as a strategic advisor for several months to support the leadership transition. 

Board Chair Chris Baldwin said Fink brings a broad range of executive experience and a strong understanding of Constellation’s operating model. 

“Nick has a diversified set of leadership experiences and is an accomplished beverage alcohol executive with a deep understanding of Constellation’s business model,” Baldwin said in a statement, also thanking Newlands for his leadership. “Nick will bring unique perspective and capabilities that will benefit Constellation and its stakeholders as we position the company for long-term success in a rapidly evolving and hyper-competitive environment.” 

Fink currently serves as CEO of Fortune Brands Innovations, a global home, security and digital products company, a role he has held since January 2020. Before that, he spent nine years with Suntory Global Spirits, where he held several senior leadership roles, including president of Asia Pacific and South America and senior vice president and chief strategy officer. 

In a statement, Fink said he has long admired Constellation’s ability to build iconic brands that resonate with consumers and expressed enthusiasm about leading the company through its next phase. 

“I’m excited to join the Constellation Brands team in my new capacity as president and CEO and to continue building on the company’s strong track record of industry leadership,” Fink said. He added that he looks forward to engaging with employees and industry partners while building on the company’s core strengths in brand development and innovation. 

The leadership change comes at a time of continued pressure across the beverage alcohol sector, as companies navigate inflationary headwinds, evolving consumer preferences and increased competition. Constellation has faced similar challenges, adjusting its operations amid shifting demand patterns. 

Locally, the company has reduced its workforce over the past year by at least 55 employees, or roughly 9 percent. It most recently reported 558 local employees, down from 613 a year earlier, according to the 2026 RBJ list of food and beverage manufacturers, where Constellation ranks third. 

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