AG Barr is making strategic advancements with the addition of Clara Shand as managing director of hospitality and international, Kieran McGrath as managing director of digital, innovation, and commercial growth, and James Quemby as sales director of retail.
These newly created positions aim to bolster the company’s commercial operations, streamline its operating model, and facilitate growth.
Shand brings a wealth of experience from Magners owner C&C Group, where she thrived in various commercial roles, most recently serving as director of strategy and planning. Meanwhile, McGrath joined from Stonegate Group and possesses extensive experience with notable companies such as Heineken and Britvic.
Quemby, who started last month, transitioned from Britvic and has significant expertise with FMCG brands like Red Star Brands and Burton’s Biscuits Company.
Reporting directly to AG Barr’s chief commercial officer, Dino Labbate, Shand, McGrath, and Quemby will collaborate with existing marketing director Lucy Henderson and sales director Paul Barker.
In his remarks about the new hires, Labbate stated: “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.”
Based in Cumbernauld, Scotland, AG Barr owns popular soft drink brands such as IRN-BRU, Rubicon, FUNKIN, and Boost.
In its latest trading report, published in March 2025, the company announced a year-on-year revenue increase of 5.1%, reaching £420 million. This growth resulted in an adjusted profit before tax of £58.5 million, representing a nearly 16% rise.
