Beverage Industry Inclusion

BY MELISSA DOWLING

The Victor , NY-based company has developed several programs and filled new executive positions to help foster diversity . We recently talked with Constellation ’ s current chief diversity officer ( CDO ) and executive vice president Mike McGrew , who also holds the roles of chief communications and corporate social responsibility ( CSR ) officer .

McGrew , who joined Constellation Brands in 2014 as head of communications for the company ’ s beer division , assumed the additional responsibility for DEI in November 2020 . Here ’ s a bit of our conversation .

Were you the first diversity executive at Constellation ? No . My colleague Kris Carey , who currently serves as Constellation ’ s chief human resources officer , helped blaze a new trail as our first chief diversity officer in 2018 . The creation of the CDO role at Constellation was based on a recommendation presented to senior management by participants in our company ’ s Women ’ s Leadership Development Program .

Under Kris ’ leadership , our DEI team did a great job of establishing our DEI operating structure and fostering strong engagement across the organization . They launched our collection of Business Resource Groups and hosted our first companywide inclusion summit , among other achievements .

Today , we ’ re focused on continuing to build on the strong DEI foundation that has been established by making substantive progress in three key areas : 1 ) developing a best-in-class , diverse workforce that reflects the consumers and communities we serve ; 2 ) creating an inclusive work environment that allows diverse talent to thrive ; and 3 ) helping to enhance social equity within our industry and communities .

What does the chief diversity officer focus on primarily ? At Constellation , we see DEI as a business imperative . Staying on the forefront of consumer trends and building brands people love are deeply embedded in our DNA . In order to sustain our success over the long term with a consumer base that is becoming more diverse each day , it ’ s important to ensure that diversity is reflected across our business and at decision-making tables at every level of our organization .

Our CDO and DEI team work with cross-functional partners across the business to establish the support structure needed to attract best-in-class diverse talent and to create a truly inclusive work environment where all employees feel valued , heard , and respected and where they can reach their full potential .

In addition , as a prominent player in the beverage alcohol segment , we take our responsibility to do our part in enhancing social equity and access to opportunity for disadvantaged demographics very seriously . The CDO and DEI team also work with cross-functional partners across the company to launch and execute programs designed to make a positive difference in this regard .

6 2022 Beverage Industry Inclusion