Leadership Transition Announced at Nation’s Largest Cannabis Trade Group

Aaron Smith, founding CEO of the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA), will step down from his executive role on August 15, 2025. After 15 years at the helm of the country’s most influential cannabis trade organization, Smith will remain involved as a member of the board of directors to support the organization through its leadership transition.

From Grassroots Advocacy to National Influence

Smith has been a central figure in advancing cannabis policy reform and elevating industry representation in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership, NCIA transformed from a fledgling advocacy group into a nationally recognized association representing thousands of cannabis businesses across the supply chain.

The organization played a critical role in shaping cannabis legislation, securing protections for legal operators, and creating a platform for small and independent businesses to influence federal policy. Smith’s departure signals the end of an era defined by tireless advocacy and coalition-building.

NCIA Board to Lead Organization’s Next Chapter

Leadership of the NCIA will now transition to its Board of Directors, chaired by Adam Rosenberg, an industry veteran and executive at Vlasic Bioscience. The board includes cannabis professionals from across the legal market who bring a diverse range of experience in policy, business, and advocacy.

This leadership model is designed to ensure strategic continuity and responsiveness as the industry enters a new phase of growth and policy evolution.

Brooke Gilbert Named Chief Operating Officer

As part of the leadership restructuring, Brooke Gilbert has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer. Previously serving as Chief Strategy Officer, Gilbert has been a key figure within NCIA for more than a decade. In her new role, she will oversee daily operations, manage staff and contractors, and help execute the board’s strategic vision.

Her institutional knowledge and long-standing commitment to the organization are expected to play a vital role in ensuring operational stability and mission focus.

Ongoing Mission to Support Reform and Member Success

NCIA leadership reaffirmed its core mission: championing policy reforms that support small and independent businesses and delivering exceptional value to its members. The organization remains focused on legislative advocacy, education, and unifying diverse stakeholders within the cannabis space.

The board has committed to a thoughtful and strategic process to identify the association’s next long-term executive leader while continuing its work to advance industry-friendly legislation at the federal level.

Smith’s Future Role in Political Reform

Smith will transition into a new role as political director at Unite America, a cross-partisan organization dedicated to structural political reform. His focus will shift to addressing systemic challenges—such as political polarization and legislative gridlock—that have hindered progress on federal cannabis policy.

His new position aligns with his long-standing interest in creating a functional political environment where meaningful cannabis reforms can advance.

A New Era for Cannabis Advocacy

Smith’s departure marks a significant turning point for the cannabis advocacy landscape. With federal legalization efforts still in motion, NCIA’s continued influence and strategic leadership remain critical to shaping national cannabis policy.

As the industry matures and regulatory frameworks evolve, NCIA’s next chapter will be defined by coordinated advocacy, member engagement, and sustained commitment to the economic and social advancement of the cannabis sector.