Constellation Brands, Inc., a leading beverage alcohol company, has announced that Jim Bourdeau, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, will retire from his role on February 28, 2026, after more than a decade with the company. ([cbrands.com](https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/press-releases/constellation-brands-announces-retirement-of-jim-bourdeau-evp-and-chief-legal-officer-jeff-labarge-named-as-successor?utm_source=openai))
Bourdeau joined Constellation Brands in September 2014 as Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Development. During his tenure, he oversaw significant mergers and acquisitions, managed complex corporate legal matters, and contributed to the company’s strategic evolution, including the expansion of its beer business operations and brand portfolio. ([cbrands.com](https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/press-releases/constellation-brands-announces-retirement-of-jim-bourdeau-evp-and-chief-legal-officer-jeff-labarge-named-as-successor?utm_source=openai))
Following his retirement, Bourdeau will transition into an Executive Vice President and Senior Advisor role, where he will advise the executive management team on company strategy and assist with the transition of his Chief Legal Officer responsibilities. ([cbrands.com](https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/press-releases/constellation-brands-announces-retirement-of-jim-bourdeau-evp-and-chief-legal-officer-jeff-labarge-named-as-successor?utm_source=openai))
Jeff LaBarge, who has been with Constellation since August 2016, will succeed Bourdeau as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer effective March 1, 2026. LaBarge joined the company as Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, and has held increasing legal leadership roles, most recently being promoted to Senior Vice President, Senior Legal Counsel in February 2025. ([cbrands.com](https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/press-releases/constellation-brands-announces-retirement-of-jim-bourdeau-evp-and-chief-legal-officer-jeff-labarge-named-as-successor?utm_source=openai))
Before joining Constellation, LaBarge was a partner at Nixon Peabody LLP from 2006 to 2016, where he focused on mergers and acquisitions, business transactions, and corporate law, leading the firm’s food, beverage, and agriculture group. ([cbrands.com](https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/press-releases/constellation-brands-announces-retirement-of-jim-bourdeau-evp-and-chief-legal-officer-jeff-labarge-named-as-successor?utm_source=openai))
Bill Newlands, President and Chief Executive Officer of Constellation Brands, expressed confidence in LaBarge’s appointment, stating, “Jeff brings a strong balance of industry knowledge and experience in business law to this role. He has played key leadership roles in a number of our company’s strategic initiatives, transactions, and investments over the past several years.” ([cbrands.com](https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/press-releases/constellation-brands-announces-retirement-of-jim-bourdeau-evp-and-chief-legal-officer-jeff-labarge-named-as-successor?utm_source=openai))
LaBarge commented on his new role, saying, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead Constellation’s legal and public affairs functions and I look forward to continuing to add value to our business, building on our strong foundation thanks to Jim’s leadership over the years.” ([cbrands.com](https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/press-releases/constellation-brands-announces-retirement-of-jim-bourdeau-evp-and-chief-legal-officer-jeff-labarge-named-as-successor?utm_source=openai))
Constellation Brands is known for its diverse portfolio, which includes brands such as Corona Extra, Modelo Especial, Robert Mondavi Winery, and High West Whiskey. ([cbrands.com](https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/press-releases/constellation-brands-announces-retirement-of-jim-bourdeau-evp-and-chief-legal-officer-jeff-labarge-named-as-successor?utm_source=openai))