US: Constellation extends board with Soderberg appointment

The board of directors at Constellation Brands has been extended from seven to eight seats.

The US-based wine giant said late last week that the new seat will be filled by Peter Soderberg.

Soderberg, 60, is currently president and CEO of Indiana-based Hillenbrand Industries, a public holding company for two operating businesses serving the healthcare and funeral services industries.

"With tremendous manufacturing, marketing and operational experience in the consumer products, business-to-business and service industry sectors, Peter will be a valued addition to the Constellation Brands board and we look forward to the contributions he will make and the guidance he will provide," said Richard Sands, Constellation's chairman and CEO. "It has been our desire to increase the number of directors as the company grows, and we believe the time is right to add another voice to our strategic business analysis and decision making capabilities."

Prior to joining Hillenbrand in 2006, Soderberg was with privately held Welch Allyn Inc. from 1993 to 2006, rising to president and CEO of the New York-based medical equipment manufacturer in 2000. Soderberg spent 23 years at Johnson & Johnson in various management positions, mostly in consumer products.

Soderberg is currently on the boards of the Advanced Medical Technology Association, the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra, Greatbatch, Inc., as well as Hillenbrand.