Nextleaf Appoints Interim CEO After Leadership Transition

Nextleaf Solutions Ltd, a Canadian cannabis processor, has announced a significant leadership transition and a strategic review. Emma Andrews, who has served as the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), President, and a director for eight years, has stepped down. The Board of Directors has appointed Sam Kassem, the current Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and a director, as the Interim CEO, effective immediately.

Andrews, who joined Nextleaf in 2018, has been instrumental in the company’s growth and transformation. During her tenure, she led the company’s transition into a consumer-packaged goods business, developed its brands and commercial capabilities, and expanded its presence in both domestic and international cannabis markets. Andrews expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Nextleaf and highlighted the accomplishments of the team.

Kassem, who has been with Nextleaf since September 2023, will now take on the role of Interim CEO. He brings over a decade of experience in the cannabis industry, including co-founding and building a U.S.-based cannabis business and holding senior leadership roles across Canada and the United States. Kassem’s appointment comes as the company embarks on a strategic review to enhance profitability, strengthen cash generation, and increase operating efficiency. The review will also focus on aligning the company’s resources and capital with the highest-value commercial opportunities.

“I am incredibly proud of what our team has built together, and particularly proud of the people and culture behind those accomplishments. I remain confident in Nextleaf’s team, brands, capabilities, and the opportunities ahead.”

Kassem stated, “As I step into this role, my immediate priority is to take a disciplined and objective look at the business and ensure that our strategy, resources, and capital are aligned with the opportunities that offer the strongest potential returns. Our focus will be on strengthening performance and positioning Nextleaf to create sustainable long-term shareholder value.”

Nextleaf remains focused on serving its customers and partners, maintaining operational continuity, and executing its near-term priorities during the transition period. The company will provide further updates as the review and CEO search progress.

Nextleaf Solutions Ltd is an innovation-driven life sciences company and licensed cannabis processor with a portfolio of consumer brands, market-validated cannabis derivative products, and high-potency bulk ingredients. The company’s platform combines intellectual property, patented technology, and operational capabilities to support the development and commercialization of differentiated cannabinoid-based products for domestic and international markets.