Gov. Hochul appoints John Kagia as acting Executive Director Office of Cannabis Management

New York (WRGB) — Gov. Hochul has appointed John Kagia as Acting Executive Director of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, her office announced.

Kagia will serve in the role until he is confirmed by the State Senate.

In a statement, Hochul said Kagia brings experience from both the public and private sectors and is well-positioned to lead the agency as New York continues to grow its legal cannabis market, saying,

John Kagia holds several years of experience in both the public and private sectors and will be able to lead the OCM efficiently, while delivering for New Yorkers across the state, Mr. Kagia embodies what it means to serve others, and I am confident that he will continue to use his talents to uplift our multibillion-dollar, equitable cannabis industry.

Kagia most recently served as Director of Policy at OCM, where he oversaw policy development and implementation for the state’s medical, adult-use, and cannabinoid hemp programs. He also managed the development of research systems within the agency.

Before joining OCM, Kagia built a career in cannabis industry analysis beginning in 2014, focusing on emerging markets, investment trends, supply chain developments, product innovation, and consumer behavior. Prior to entering the cannabis sector, he spent a decade providing market research and strategic intelligence to organizations across the federal government, technology, and nonprofit sectors.

Kagia said,

It is an extraordinary privilege to lead this program at this pivotal moment for our cannabis industry. New York has built the most exciting, equitable, innovative, and opportunity-rich cannabis market in the world, and I look forward to working with the Governor, the incredible staff at the Office, and with all our stakeholders to continue to grow our industry.

OCM Executive Deputy Director Susan Filburn praised the appointment, citing Kagia’s institutional knowledge and leadership within the agency, saying,

John has dedicated years of service to OCM and the cannabis industry. He brings a deep institutional knowledge, steady leadership, and the respect of his colleagues at every level to this role. I have great confidence in his ability to guide the agency forward and to continue delivering on our mission for the communities we serve. I look forward to supporting John and seeing the Office thrive under his leadership.

In a statement from Empire Cannabis Manufacturers Alliance President Mack Hueber, they said,

The Empire Cannabis Manufacturers Alliance strongly supports the appointment of John Kagia as Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Management. At a moment when the market needs steady, credible leadership, John is the right person to steer the ship and guide the agency forward. ECMA has supported John for this role since 2024, when the state last conducted a search for permanent leadership, because of his deep understanding of the regulatory framework, operational expertise, and commitment to building a market defined by small businesses and equity that’s in line with the state’s cannabis law. His appointment provides the continuity the industry has been calling for and positions OCM to build on the progress already made while tackling the challenges ahead.Comment with Bubbles

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Kagia will serve as acting executive director pending confirmation by the New York State Senate.

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