Changes in New York OCM Leadership

After the termination of Chris Alexander from the Office of Cannabis Management in New York by Governor Kathy Hochul, a series of high-level departures ensued. Several senior officials, including Danielle Holmes, Nicole Rosa, Patricia Piskorski Heer, and Linda Baldwin, decided to vacate their positions. These shifts come in the wake of successful operations that led to the closure of over 1,000 illicit cannabis stores across New York.

Fresh Leadership at Connecticut’s Social Equity Council

The Connecticut Social Equity Council welcomed a new executive director, Brandon McGee, replacing Ginne-Rae Clay. McGee, renowned for his work on Gov. Ned Lamont‘s reelection, is set to steer social equity initiatives within the state’s recreational marijuana industry.

CEO Transitions in Major Cannabis Companies

Canadian cannabis juggernaut Canopy Growth Corporation sees CEO David Klein preparing to retire by the end of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. Meanwhile, Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. places its executive chairman, Boris Jordan, as the new CEO following Matt Darin‘s retirement plan.

In mid-August, Verde Financial Solutions Inc. appointed Crystal K. Morris as CEO to drive strategic growth partnerships post the removal of Cameron Binion due to ethical concerns, marking a bold move by the shareholders and board.

Board Evolution Across Cannabis Companies

Ayr Wellness Inc. witnessed Jonathan Sandelman stepping down, with Louis Karger now leading the board. Similarly, Aurora Cannabis Inc. elected new directors, including Ron Funk and Miguel Martin, among others.

Agrify Corporation reaffirmed the positions of key board members following a stockholder meeting. Meanwhile, SNDL Inc. and Organigram Holdings Inc. adjusted their directorial setups to adapt to changing industry dynamics.

Additionally, companies like Rubicon Organics Inc., Sunburn, and Vext Science, Inc. endorsed new board members, signaling a strategic alignment with diverse expertise in the cannabis and psychedelic sectors.

Furthermore, Healing Realty Trust enriched its advisory team with the addition of Cia Buckley Marakovits, while MY Self Wellness Co-Founder Charles Patti‘s inclusion in Noonautics board brings new perspectives to the psychedelic space.