Joe Conti, CEO

Joe Conti offers strong leadership through an amalgam of experience in business, serving in the public trust and in higher education. His diverse background as business executive, state official, lecturer and trustee affords innovation and implementation of complex initiatives in both public and private sector entities. He offers years of strategic vision and practical decision making with outstanding communication skills.

In December 2006, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board appointed Conti chief executive officer of this independent, state agency. As agency leader, his primary duty is to implement Board policy. The mission of the PLCB is marketing and merchandising a retail operation of approximately 620 stores with sales of $1.9 billion, regulation of 17,000 licensees and administration of the alcohol education and awareness programs. Current employment complement is 4500 people with four labor associations. Under his direction, the agency has experienced a renaissance of modernization and transformation in direction.

Conti directed the reorganization of the PLCB with the creation of three retail offices and three regulatory offices to increase the capacity of the agency to implement goals and initiatives. The strategic retail services project produced a new look for the retail stores, refreshed e-commerce website, Pronto kiosk convenience stores, wine boutiques in food markets and a new point of sales system. Professional development programs were developed in recognition of the importance of customer service in all retail operations.

Acting like a publically traded company, the PLCB completed integration of the GAAP compliant electronic resource planning (ERP) business system, including allocation and replenishment systems. The PLCB is moving to a system of bailment and future consolidation of distribution centers. Licensee service centers move purchases out of the retail stores to more efficient low cost locations. The regulation of 17,000 licensees continues to move forward through electronic systems improvements and funding has increased for alcohol education grants.

Much of his time as CEO of the PLCB is devoted to communications and outreach. Conti expresses his dedication to the mission of the agency through interaction with the Governor’s office, the General Assembly, community groups and the media. He convenes essential stakeholders such as suppliers, brokers, licensees and the PA wineries for discussions on matters of mutual interest. Known for his openness, Conti fosters an environment of collaboration and recognizes the value of listening with these partners.