Accolade appoints new UK and Ireland manager

Accolade Wines has appointed Ade McKeon as its general manger for the UK and Ireland, replacing outgoing general manager Rob Harrison.

Prior to joining Accolade, McKeon held various positions within the drinks industry, most recently four years with ASDA in commercial and brand leadership roles, followed by two years as trading director leading the trading integration of the Booker Retail Partners acquisition of Musgrave Retail Partners.

His previous positions have included various strategic marketing, sales and general management roles at wine brands such as Ernest & Julio Gallo, Canandaigua Wine Company, Southcorp and Constellation Wines.

Accolade confirmed that Harrison had signalled his intention to leave the company to pursue “alternate career opportunities” at the end of this financial year, having been promoted to the role in December 2015, providing a three month period for a smooth leadership transition.

“Ade is a natural fit for Accolade Wines, bringing exceptional customer relationships and deep commercial understanding of our industry,” said Accolade Wines CEO, Michael East. “I am delighted to have Ade as part of the Accolade Wines executive team. I would like to thank Rob for all his contributions to Accolade Wines and wish him well with his future endeavours.”

McKeon will be based at Accolade’s headquarters in Weybridge and will be responsible for the continued leadership and business growth of the company’s portfolio in the UK and Ireland.