Richard 'Rich' Sands is an American businessman, the billionaire Co-owner and former Chairman of Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE: STZ), a global leader in alcoholic beverages (brands include Corona, Modelo, and Robert Mondavi). His wealth is generational, tied to the industrial empire founded by his father, Marvin Sands, in 1945.

Sands holds a B.A. from the University of North Carolina (UNC) and an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania (1973). His philosophical approach centers on generational stewardship, strategic M&A, and long-term brand preservation in the essential food and beverage sector.

• Constellation Brands, Inc. (Co-owner & Former Chairman): The core publicly traded asset, a global leader in beer, wine, and spirits (known for its dominant position in the U.S. imported beer market).
• M&A Apex: He orchestrated major acquisitions, including the purchase of the Corona and Modelo U.S. beer distribution rights (a structural move that transformed the company).
• Academic Background: He holds an MBA from Wharton and a B.A. from UNC.
• Family Governance: He and his brother, Rob Sands (the former CEO), control the majority of the publicly traded company.

Richard Sands's strategic leadership guided Constellation Brands' transformation into a global powerhouse. He served as Chairman and successfully orchestrated the acquisition of the Corona and Modelo U.S. distribution rights (a key structural move that secured the company's dominance in the high-growth imported beer market). His structural contribution is immense: driving the professionalization and scale of the global beverage sector.

He stepped down as Chairman (remaining a major shareholder) to focus on governance. His wealth is secured by the colossal, long-term, stable profitability of the global beverage and consumer staples sector.

Richard Sands's social impact is structural, stemming from Constellation Brands' role in providing essential beverages globally. His Sands Family Foundation supports various educational, cultural, and community initiatives (including funding the Sands Family Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership at UNC). His structural contribution is tied to the successful generational transition and professionalization of a critical American industrial asset.

His personal philanthropy supports various community and educational initiatives.

Richard Sands maintains the professional, composed style of a corporate executive. His attire is consistently formal and high-quality, favoring tailored suits. His aesthetic reflects serious authority and stability, typical of a leader in the global food and beverage sector.

Residing in Rochester, New York, his luxury is the immense security and financial reward derived from his multi-billion dollar fortune. His life is dedicated to corporate governance, strategic investment, and philanthropy.