The new arrivals include Clara Shand, who has been named as managing director of hospitality and international, Kieran McGrath – the firm’s new managing director of digital, innovation and commercial growth – and James Quemby, sales director of retail.
All three roles have been newly created in an attempt to strengthen the firm’s commercial operations, simplify its operating model and drive growth.
Shand joined AG Barr from Magners owner C&C Group where she spent 12 years in commercial roles, most recently as director of strategy and planning, while McGrath arrived from pub firm Stonegate Group. He also has experience working for Heineken and Britvic.
Lastly, Quemby arrived last month from Britvic and has experience working for FMCG brands including Red Star Brands and Burton’s Biscuits Company.
Shand, McGrath and Quemby are all reporting to AG Barr chief commercial officer Dino Labbate, and sit alongside existing marketing director Lucy Henderson and sales director Paul Barker.
Commenting on the new hires, Labbate said: “We have brought together a highly experienced and driven team to create a commercial powerhouse to propel our brands on to further success.
“The combined expertise allows us to harness the full potential of our incredible portfolio while fostering a collaborative, one-team approach to our commercial advantage. We are excited to leverage our collective strength to drive innovation and growth across our much-loved and enjoyed brands.”
AG Barr is based in the Scottish town of Cumbernauld and owns well-known soft drink brands including IRN-BRU, Rubicon, FUNKIN and Boost.
In the firm’s most recent trading results, published in March 2025, AG Barr reported a year-on-year revenue increase of 5.1% to £420 million. This translated to adjusted profit before tax of £58.5 million and nearly 16% growth.
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