Joe Fenten is a Partner in TechCXO’s Executive Operations practice, specializing in transforming businesses through operational excellence and strategic leadership. With two decades of experience, Joe is frequently called on by Boards, investors, and senior management teams to address critical challenges as a fractional COO or CEO.
An entrepreneurial visionary and operational expert, Joe has a proven track record of scaling businesses, streamlining operations, and driving profitability. As the founder and CEO of South Carolina’s first craft distillery, he built the business from the ground up, scaled it successfully, and exited to private equity. Now, he helps founders, CEOs, and investors optimize operations, drive profitability, and prepare for sustainable growth, funding rounds, or lucrative exits.
Joe excels at solving complex challenges, from operational inefficiencies to leadership bottlenecks. Known for his ability to turn chaos into clarity, he aligns
systems, processes, and teams to deliver measurable results. Combining empathy with strategy, Joe helps his clients achieve their goals while reducing burnout and building resilient organizations.
Core Areas of Expertise:
- Operational Optimization: Streamlining workflows, eliminating inefficiencies, and driving profitability.
- Strategic Planning & Execution: Developing actionable roadmaps to achieve long-term success.
- Financial Leadership: Improving cash flow, reducing costs, and boosting valuation.
- Leadership Development: Building resilient, high-performing teams that thrive.
- Exit Preparation: Aligning operations and processes to maximize valuation and simplify transitions.
During his distinguished career, Joe served as CEO and Founder of Hilton Head Distillery. He has also served in executive roles with Ansuz Capital, the American Distilling Institute, Hook Security Co., and KeyPleaz. Joe began his career as an engineer for Mustang Engineering and also held engineering roles with The Shaw Group, Progress Energy, Duke Energy, Jacobs, and Hartness International.
Joe holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Clemson University and is a Certified Professional Engineer (PE) and EOS Integrator. Passionate about giving back, he mentors entrepreneurs and actively supports South Carolina’s startup ecosystem. Outside of work, Joe enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with his wife and two children.