Constellation Brands, the maker of Corona and Modelo beers in the U.S., has appointed Alex Alvarez as its new senior vice president and chief supply chain officer for the beer division.
Alvarez will take the position on September 14, succeeding John Kester, who plans to retire in November. In this role, Alvarez will manage the entire beer supply chain, covering manufacturing, procurement, planning, logistics, and distribution. He will report to Jim Sabia, executive vice president and president of the beer division.
Alvarez’s extensive supply chain background
Alvarez has over 30 years of experience in operations and supply chain management. His work spans manufacturing, distribution, innovation, quality, sustainability, and capital management. Most recently, he served as SVP and chief supply chain officer at Suntory Global Spirits, where he oversaw 18 distilleries across the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Europe, and India.
Before joining Suntory, Alvarez spent 16 years at Brown-Forman, the company behind Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve. During his time there, he held multiple leadership positions, including eight years as SVP and chief production and sustainability officer. His career also includes roles at General Mills and Procter & Gamble, providing him with broad experience in consumer packaged goods.
Sabia described Alvarez as an “accomplished supply chain executive with a strong history of leading complex global operations.” He noted that Alvarez’s skills in manufacturing, logistics, and business transformation would support Constellation’s long-term goals.
Kester’s contributions to the beer division
Kester has led the supply chain for the past three years and previously spent nine years at Constellation as SVP of operations services. Over his 12-year career with the company, he created a centralized procurement function, integrated key manufacturing assets, and developed a fully connected supply chain from start to finish.
Sabia recognized Kester’s impact, stating that his “vision and operational excellence helped build the high-performing supply chain the company relies on today.”
The leadership change occurs as beer supply chains deal with evolving consumer preferences, rising transportation costs, and sustainability demands. Constellation has expanded its U.S. production capacity, including a $1.5 billion upgrade to its Nava, Mexico, brewery in 2022. Alvarez will need to balance efficiency with adaptability. His experience in spirits and consumer goods may encourage greater collaboration across Constellation’s supply chain.
His first major challenge will likely arrive during the holiday season, when beer sales rise sharply. A smooth distribution performance could indicate a successful transition from Kester’s leadership.
Recent trends show alcohol use declining in the U.S., adding another layer of complexity to supply chain planning.
