Darrell Clarke has been appointed the new chairman of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB), replacing outgoing chairman Tim Holden.

“For almost 91 years, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has worked to benefit the Commonwealth by regulating the beverage alcohol industry, serving as a responsible retailer and wholesaler, promoting responsible consumption and alcohol education, and generating significant dollars for state and local coffers,” said Clarke. “I have committed my life to public service and I am honored that Governor Shapiro has entrusted me with this position. I look forward to continuing to serve our Commonwealth.”

Clarke was nominated to the PLCB by Governor Josh Shapiro on Sept. 1, 2023 and was confirmed to a four-year term by the state Senate on Feb. 8, 2024.

A Philadelphia resident and product of Philadelphia public schools, Clarke grew up in Strawberry Mansion and began his service to North Philadelphia as a community activist before later being recruited to serve as a constituent service representative for a Philadelphia City Councilmember in 1980.

From there, he rose to become the member’s chief of staff before being elected to represent the Fifth District.

In 2012, Clarke became Philadelphia City Council president — the second-most powerful position in the sixth-largest city in the nation — and remained in the role until retiring in January 2024.

The PLCB regulates the distribution of beverage alcohol in Pennsylvania, operates about 600 wine and spirits stores statewide, and licenses 20,000 alcohol producers, retailers, and handlers.

Read more about Darrell Clarke’s career resume at the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.

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