Welch’s names Brad Irwin as President & CEO

Welch’s names Brad Irwin as President & CEO

Welch’s names Brad Irwin as President & CEO

Brad Irwin has been named president and chief executive of Welch's, effective Feb. 16, the Concord-based marketer of Concord and Niagara grape-based products said today.

Irwin will succeed David J. Lukiewski, who retired in October, a Welch's spokeswoman said.

Irwin's most recent position was president of Cadbury Adams North America LLC, the confectionery business unit of Cadbury Schweppes plc, and Irwin's resume includes a 20-year stint with Procter & Gamble Co., the consumer products giant.

"The addition of Brad Irwin as president & CEO comes during an important time for Welch's," Joe Falcone, chairman of the board and president of National Grape Cooperative Inc., said in a statement. "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."