Welch’s, the world’s leading marketer of Concord and Niagara grape-based products, on January 29 announced it has named Brad Irwin as its president and chief executive officer, effective February 16. Irwin will help Welch’s continue to maximize the organization’s value while expanding returns for grower-owners.
“The opportunity to continue to grow a company that has a strong, iconic reputation grounded in a rich history is very exciting to me,” said Irwin. “I look forward to this journey with Welch’s and helping to drive the growth and profitability of the company.”
Irwin’s most recent position was president, Cadbury Adams North America LLC, the confectionery business unit of Cadbury Schweppes plc. Brad joined Cadbury in 2000 after 20 years with Procter & Gamble (P&G). In 1989, he moved from P&G brand management in the U.S. to become a marketing director in the Netherlands. After returning to the U.S., he was promoted to general manager. In 1996, Irwin was promoted to lead the business unit in Korea. In 2000, he left P&G to join Cadbury Schweppes in the U.S. as president of Mott’s Inc. He became president, Cadbury Adams USA LLC, in 2003, and added Canada to his responsibilities as president of North America three years later.
“The addition of Brad Irwin as president and CEO comes during an important time for Welch’s,” said Joe Falcone, chairman of the board and president of National Grape Cooperative Inc. “We’re continuing to build relevance with consumers. Brad’s experience with other consumer-based brands and proven organizational leadership will be crucial in helping drive our business forward successfully.”
Irwin is a member of the board of directors of Church & Dwight, a leading consumer packaged goods company. He has a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from Amherst College. He will be Welch’s 14th president.
About Welch’s
Headquartered in Concord, Mass., Welch’s is the processing and marketing subsidiary of the National Grape Cooperative Association whose Concord and Niagara grapes are harvested from vineyards across America and in select locations in Canada. Since the inception of its “unfermented grape wine” in 1869, Welch’s now produces and markets grape juice and grape jelly plus more than 400 other fruit-based products from juices to dried fruit to frozen concentrates. Welch’s 100 percent Grape Juice made from Concord grapes helps promote a healthy heart and arteries, maintain a healthy immune system, and support a healthy mind. Welch’s is committed to research and development which will meet the growing demand for products that address consumers’ health and wellness needs. Welch’s products are sold throughout the United States and in 50 countries around the globe.