TOP 100 MAGAZINE

Joe Conley
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Joe Conley has spent more than three decades building a career defined by momentum, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to people. As owner, president, and CEO of Royce-U.S. Protection Services, he has transformed a small local security firm into a multi-state regional operation with a reputation for reliability and forward-thinking solutions. His journey began in 1994 in a sales role with Metro Cleveland Security, where he quickly developed a deep understanding of the industry’s demands. By 1996, he was recruited to The Antares Group to lead Royce Security Services as division manager. Just five years later, he made a decisive move, acquiring the company in 2001 and setting the stage for decades of growth.

 

Under Joe’s leadership, Royce-U.S. Protection Services has expanded its footprint across Ohio, Michigan, New York, Kentucky, Georgia, and Illinois. The company has evolved beyond traditional guard services to become a comprehensive security provider, integrating advanced technologies such as remote guarding systems, access control, and AI-driven solutions. Yet at its core, the business remains centered on people, both the clients it protects and the employees who make that protection possible.  Joe credits much of his success to the people around him, especially his wife Tina as both is life partner and business partner. 

 

Scaling with Purpose

 

Growing a service-based business where the product is people presents a unique and ongoing challenge. For Joe, success hinges on the ability to recruit, train, and retain the right individuals while maintaining consistent service quality. Matching personnel to specific environments, whether hospitals, retail centers, or corporate settings, is critical, and Royce has built a reputation for getting that alignment right. Joe approaches growth with the understanding that setbacks are inevitable; what defines success is how a leadership team responds.  He has lived by “what you do next” is what matters.  This mindset has shaped a culture that prioritizes adaptability, planning, and decisive action.

 

Evolving Security in a Changing World

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As the security landscape grows more complex, Royce continues to adapt. While security guard services remain the foundation of the business, demand has shifted toward more specialized and technology-enhanced solutions. Executive protection has become an increasingly significant area, reflecting heightened concerns in both corporate and public environments. At the same time, clients are seeking integrated systems that combine physical presence with advanced monitoring capabilities. By offering armed and unarmed personnel, off-duty law enforcement, and cutting-edge surveillance technologies, Royce delivers layered protection tailored to modern risks.

 

Leadership, Responsibility, and Impact

 

For Joe, the most rewarding aspect of his work lies in both competition and contribution. A lifelong athlete, he channels his competitive drive into building and growing the company, viewing business as another arena where success is earned. Equally important is his commitment to people. With approximately 1,000 employees, he recognizes the responsibility of providing not just jobs, but opportunities for growth and stability. Watching individuals advance within the organization, and improve their lives along the way, remains one of his greatest sources of pride. This balance of ambition and accountability continues to define both his leadership and the company’s trajectory.

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Joe Conley
Owner, President, and CEO
Royce-U. S. Protection Services
Website: www.uspsvc.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joe-conley-82488910