Vice President Government Affairs

Verano Holdings Corp. (CSE: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF), one of the U.S. cannabis industry’s leading companies based on historical revenue, geographic scope, and brand performance, is a vertically integrated, multi-state operator. Verano’s active operations span 13 U.S. states, comprised of 14 production facilities with over 1,000,000 square feet of cultivation capacity and 138 dispensaries. Learn more at

This role, which reports to the company’s Executive Vice President of Regulatory Strategy & Government Affairs, focuses on legislative, regulatory, and policy initiatives across the nation by working cross-functionally with the compliance, legal, corporate communications, investor relations, finance, operations, and marketing departments to understand the company’s global regulatory and policy goals. Qualified individuals will demonstrate several years of high-level experience in state and federal government relations, with a specific background in policy formulation and legislative strategy in a highly regulated industry. This role can be located in Chicago, IL, or Washington, DC.

A demonstrated track record in publicly advocating for legislation, setting corporate strategy, leading policy initiatives through trade associations and lobbying efforts, and overseeing government and public relations for national organizations in a highly regulated industry is required. The ideal candidate must have strong organizational skills, be able to work collaboratively to oversee multiple projects at once and use analytical skills to solve complex problems under rigorous timelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Build and maintain relationships with federal, state, and local elected officials, lobbyists, business leaders, and other industry stakeholders in Verano’s current and future markets.

Advocate before federal and state legislative leaders and public entities on behalf of Verano.

Serve as a leader in federal and state trade associations to drive policy initiatives and support Verano’s business objectives.

Assist with municipal zoning and local community hearings for new expansion projects.

Help support the company’s social equity, inclusion, and diversity efforts.

Monitor changes to cannabis laws, regulations, and industry guidance at the federal level and in various states and municipalities.

Work closely with compliance and operational stakeholders to implement regulatory changes in standard operation procedures and general business objectives.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required.

Juris Doctorate or master’s degree in public policy or related field strongly preferred.

A minimum 8-10 years’ progressive government and regulatory affairs experience in highly regulated industry preferred.

Specific experience in the cannabis industry is a plus.

Ability and willingness to regularly travel to venues throughout the U.S. required.