Early Life
Robert Scott Sands was born in 1958/59 in Canandaigua, New York, and is the son of Marvin Sands. He graduated from The Harley School in Rochester, New York, in 1976. He earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy from Skidmore College, followed by a Juris Doctor from Pace University.
Rise to Success
Sands began his career at the law firm of Harter Secrest & Emery LLP in Rochester, New York, before joining the family business, Constellation Brands, as general counsel in 1986. He later served as CEO of Constellation Brands from 2007 to 2019 and then as Board Chair until 2023. Under his leadership, the company expanded significantly, becoming a leading beer supplier in the high-end U.S. market and one of the fastest-growing consumer packaged goods companies. He is the Executive Chairman of Constellation Brands.
Key Business Strategies
Sands's strategies involved aggressive acquisitions, expanding Constellation Brands' footprint and transitioning the company into premium products, including the rights to Grupo Modelo beers in the US. The company now has more than 9,000 employees and 40 facilities, with annual sales exceeding $8 billion. Sands's leadership was crucial in positioning Constellation Brands as a Fortune 500 company.
Philanthropy
The Sands family has established the Sands Family Supporting Foundation and has made significant donations, including a $61 million contribution to the Rochester Area Community Foundation in 2016.