Big changes are coming our way. Thank you to Nancy Whiteman for 14 years of leadership, vision, kindness, and puns. We'd never be able to let you go if you weren't leaving Wana in such capable hands. Congrats to Joe Hodas - we're so grateful you're leading the way as we continue build on what Nancy has brought to life.
I’m writing to share some happy, exciting, and bittersweet news. After almost 14 years since co-founding Wana, I am going to be stepping down from my day-to-day role as Wana’s CEO. I’m thrilled to announce that Joe Hodas, our beloved CMO will be taking my place at the helm of Wana. To say that I am leaving Wana in good hands is an understatement—but more on that in a minute. Coincidentally, my transition is happening close to the formation of Canopy USA (CUSA) which will enable Canopy to exercise its option to purchase Wana and bring its three US entities--Wana, Jetty and Acreage--into one integrated company. When we completed our transaction with Canopy almost 2 ½ years ago, we never suspected that it would take this long to get to the point but we are finally here and are looking forward to unlocking the power of bringing these three companies together. I mention this because some people may be wondering what I plan to do next! As anyone who has been a founder knows, leaving the company that you helped build and that you love is really hard. So, I plan to remain involved as a strategic advisor to Joe and the leadership team and to assist the team in Wana’s international expansion. I’ll also remain actively involved with CUSA as a board member, assisting in the process of integrating the three companies. I’m also looking forward to being able to devote more time to the Wana Brands Foundation, the foundation that I funded after the Canopy transaction. While we have already made close to $5 million in donations to over 150 organizations, I’m excited to learn more about the issues that the foundation supports so we can increase our impact and effectiveness. But lest anyone think I’m going to completely re-fill my time with different kinds of work and busy-ness, I will also share that I’m also looking forward to spending more relaxed time with my friends and family, traveling the world, and exploring new interests and opportunities. Most of all, I want to express my love and appreciation for our amazing team at Wana, starting with Joe. Joe and I knew each other for many years before he joined Wana and I feel privileged to have had the last 4+ years to work closely with him. He brings a unique mix of industry knowledge and relationships, great strategic instincts, unparalleled branding expertise, and a collaborative and caring leadership style that defines Wana’s culture. He will be ably supported by our incredible leadership team Kelly Flores, Eric Bloc, Sandy Li, Mike Hennesy, Stephanie Daley, Karla Rodriguez, Cindy Gonzales, and Myka Cygielman and the passionate and dedicated teams that they each manage. Wana is just getting started and I can’t wait to watch as the vision continues to unfold under Joe’s leadership. And finally, my deepest thanks to all of my industry friends who have been there for me in good times and bad. LI will not allow me enough characters to mention all of you by name but every single one of you is in my heart.