The CEO of Victor-based Constellation Brands is stepping down, leaving the door open for leadership from outside the Sands family for the first time ever.

Rob Sands will transition out of the role by March of next year.

He's set to become the company's next executive chairman.

During his 11-year tenure, Constellation Brands has grown into the third biggest beer company in the country and the largest wine seller with about 100 brands in its portfolio.

The person tapped to follow in his footsteps is Bill Newlands.

He joined the company in 2015 and moved up to his current role of company president.

Newlands is set to become both president and CEO on March 1.