Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control

04/23/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/23/2024 12:28

Dale Farino to Lead Virginia ABC into the Future as CEO

Virginia ABC enthusiastically applauds the appointment of Dale Farino as the new CEO at Virginia ABC. In his time on the Board, Farino has demonstrated that he is a quick study, detail oriented and committed to the growth and development of Virginia ABC. The transition will begin immediately.

Over the past six months, the authority has taken significant steps to optimize efficiencies and set the stage for enhanced profitability under the leadership of Chief Tom Kirby, Interim CEO and Chief of the authority's Bureau of Law Enforcement. "I want to commend Tom for the outstanding job he has done in helping Virginia ABC turn a corner toward strengthened fiscal and operational leadership across the authority," said Tim Hugo, Virginia ABC Board Chair. To that, he added "the groundwork laid will enable a more seamless transition as Dale Farino takes the helm and moves the authority toward a successful and sustainable future, as it continues its mission to responsibly distribute, sell, and regulate alcohol across the Commonwealth."
An accomplished and proven leader, Dale brings with him more than three decades of experience in the industry, as well as deep knowledge from leading in the areas of fiscal responsibility, operational excellence, and optimization of sales and growth opportunities. Prior to serving as Vice Chair of the Virginia ABC Board of Directors, Dale served in a wide array of roles at Breakthru Beverage Virginia, ranging from VP of Operations to Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and EVP/President. Farino also served as President of the Virginia Wine Wholesalers Association from 2019-2023.
Dale earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Richmond. He is a long-time public servant, including a role as Artillery Officer in the United States Marine Corps. His unique mix of capabilities driving strong sales performance, while ensuring efficient operations and maximum profitability in the beverage industry, make him the ideal choice to lead Virginia ABC at this time. Upon his appointment, Dale shared "I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as CEO at this pivotal time in Virginia ABC's history. I know that by working in partnership across the authority, state government and the industry, we can expedite growth in the alcohol beverage arena, while also serving the Commonwealth in a safe, efficient, and sustainable manner."
ABC Board Chairman Tim Hugo, recently re-appointed by Governor Youngkin, stated "I could not be more excited about this selection. I have confidence that with Dale working collaboratively with the board, executive team and teammates across the authority, a successful future is imminent. While the authority contributed an impressive $12 billion to the Virginia General Fund over the past ninety years, I have no doubt Dale will lead the authority to a place of even greater profitability, sustainability and resilience in the years to come."
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The Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC) is a major source of revenue for the commonwealth, contributing more than $2.9 billion to the general fund in the last five years. Virginia ABC currently operates 402 state stores and provides alcohol education and prevention programs for people of all ages. Its Bureau of Law Enforcement oversees approximately 19,000 ABC licensed establishments. Now marking its 90th year, ABC remains committed to progress and innovation in carrying out its vision of bringing good spirits and excellent service to Virginia.

Web: www.abc.virginia.gov Facebook: @VirginiaABC and @SpiritedVirginia
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