Gov. Kathy Hochul has appointed John Kagia as acting executive director of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management.
Kagia will serve in the role until he is confirmed by the State Senate, according to the governor’s office.
Kagia most recently served as the agency’s director of policy, where he oversaw policy development and implementation for New York’s medical, adult-use and cannabinoid hemp programs. He also managed the development of research systems for the state’s cannabis market.
Hochul said Kagia’s background in both the public and private sectors will help guide the state’s multibillion-dollar cannabis industry.
“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,” Hochul said.
Kagia joined the cannabis industry in 2014 and previously worked as an industry analyst focused on global markets, investment trends, supply chains and consumer behavior. Before entering the cannabis field, he spent a decade providing market research and strategic intelligence to organizations in the federal government, technology and nonprofit sectors.
“It is an extraordinary privilege to lead this program at this pivotal moment for our cannabis industry,” Kagia said. “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 said Kagia brings “deep institutional knowledge” and steady leadership to the position.
The Office of Cannabis Management oversees the state’s cannabis licensing, regulation and market development efforts.
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