The leader of Canada’s national cannabis trade association has stepped down after four successful years in his position as president and chief executive officer.
The Cannabis Council of Canada (C3) announced George Smitherman’s departure on Wednesday. The Ottawa-based organization now seeks someone to step in and assume his former role.
“I am excited for new opportunities and proud of the work we accomplished over the past four years,” Smitherman told Stratcann. He says he looks forward to observing the future development of C3 from the sidelines.
Through Smitherman’s leadership, C3 navigated and overcame challenges. Also, it beneficially collaborated with the government and advocated for policies supporting the positive development of the cannabis sector.
“His commitment and tireless advocacy have been instrumental in bringing our organization to new heights of representation, advancing the interests of our members and the cannabis industry as a whole,” Rick Savone, C3 Chair of the Board, said.
The organization’s secretary and treasurer will assume the roles of interim acting co-executive directors until new leadership has been appointed.
“The authentic people of the cannabis community are some of the most passionate and resilient people that I have ever met,” Smitherman said Thursday on LinkedIn. He added, “It has been a great privilege to work amongst you.”
George Smitherman bids farewell to C3 after four years. His leadership, insights and spirit have been instrumental in driving positive change for our industry. We’re now searching for a new Executive Director. Learn more: https://t.co/tx0udB0nKQ pic.twitter.com/FfLNayEkD8
— Cannabis Council of Canada (@Cannabis_Canada) January 31, 2024
Read more: Israel launches ‘anti-dumping’ probe into Canada’s cannabis companies
Read more: High Tide opens up shop in Fort McMurray, expects steady revenue from oil sands workers
Smitherman starts new job at research firm
Smitherman stepped into a Senior Strategic Advisor role at Delphic Research immediately after leaving C3.
The company says he is well known for being an accomplished public affairs specialist and will be the ideal fit for the job. Smitherman will counsel Delphic’s CEO and Founder Jason Grier and other leaders on various matters.
“Anybody that knows me understands the deep respect that I have for Jason Grier,” Smitherman said. “I am charged with helping to fuel the growth of a startup that is successfully aligning the best of human innovation and technology to help executives cut through the noise and confusion caused by too much unfiltered data.”
The firm comprises people with experience in the fields of government, journalism, artificial intelligence, technology, life sciences and other backgrounds.
Smitherman was recently recognized as one of Grow Up’s top 50 Canadian cannabis leaders.
He once served as the deputy premier of Ontario in 2008 and 2009. Also, he is the first openly gay member of provincial parliament in Ontario’s history.
rowan@mugglehead.com
