RICHMOND, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin announced today the appointment of Dale Farino as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC), effective April 29, 2024. Currently serving as the Vice-Chair of the ABC Board, Mr. Farino brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record from his extensive career in the beverage industry, including significant roles at Breakthru Beverage Virginia, Tidewater Wholesalers, The Coca-Cola Bottling Company and his service as President of the Wine Wholesalers Association.
“Dale Farino’s exceptional background in both national and international beverage distribution positions him perfectly to lead the Virginia ABC,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “His strategic insights and operational expertise are vital as we continue to enhance our services, increase revenues, and enforce the regulations that keep Virginians safe.”
At Breakthru Beverage Virginia, Mr. Farino retired as the Executive Vice President, where he was instrumental in developing market strategies and operational excellence that significantly enhanced product accessibility and consumer satisfaction. His tenure at Breakthru was marked by a commitment to innovation and excellence, which drove the company to become a major player in the alcohol beverage industry.
Before his impactful tenure at Breakthru, Mr. Farino also played significant roles at Tidewater Wholesalers and The Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and he recently served as President of the Wine Wholesalers Association. These roles sharpened his experience in managing large-scale operations and developing strategies that respond effectively to dynamic market needs.
“I am honored by the trust placed in me by Governor Youngkin and excited to lead an agency that plays such a vital role in the Commonwealth,” said Mr. Farino. “I look forward to leveraging my industry experience to advance ABC’s mission and to serve the citizens of Virginia.”
Mr. Farino’s seat as Vice-Chair of the ABC Board of Directors will be filled by L. Mark Stepanian, former Owner and CEO of Loveland Distributing Company, Inc. and former Chair of the Virginia Beer Wholesalers Association.
