Early Life
Robert Scott Sands was born in 1958 or 1959, and grew up in Canandaigua, New York. He is the son of Marvin Sands, who founded the Canandaigua Wine Company in 1945. Sands attended The Harley School in Rochester, New York, graduating in 1976. He earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy from Skidmore College, followed by a Juris Doctor from Pace University.
Rise to Success
After graduating from law school, Sands began his career at the law firm of Harter Secrest & Emery LLP in Rochester, New York. He then joined his family business, Constellation Brands, as general counsel in 1986. He progressively advanced within the company, holding positions such as Executive Vice President, Chief Executive Officer of Constellation International, and President and Chief Operating Officer of Constellation Wines and Constellation Beers and Spirits. He became President and CEO in 2007, succeeding his brother, Richard Sands. Under his leadership, Constellation Brands grew into a global alcohol empire. In 2018, he became the Executive Chairman of the company.
Key Business Strategies
Sands spearheaded the growth of Constellation Brands through strategic acquisitions and a focus on premium brands. His strategies included acquiring the U.S. rights to Grupo Modelo beers (including Corona and Modelo) and expanding the company's presence in the high-end beer segment. Sands also invested in the cannabis industry in 2018, acquiring a 38% stake in the Toronto-listed cannabis firm Canopy Growth. His leadership was marked by an emphasis on corporate responsibility.
Philanthropy
The Sands family has been dedicated to philanthropy. In 2016, the Sands family donated $61 million to the Rochester Area Community Foundation. The family established the Sands Family Supporting Foundation.