The U.S. Hemp Industries Association (HIA) has named a new executive director, filling a position that has been open since the end of 2019.
HIA said Jody McGinness, who recently served as the head of fundraising for the Marijuana Policy Project, will take up the position, replacing Colleen Keahey Lanier who served the Association for three years.
McGinness has experience in associations and membership organizations in the nonprofit sector. In his position with Marijuana Policy Project, he campaigned successfully to pass adult-use legalization laws in Illinois and Vermont and engineered the passage of medical cannabis legalization in Utah, according to a release from HIA.
HIA is realigning to overcome financial and administrative difficulties that came to light earlier this year when it warned state chapters it was in danger of becoming insolvent. The Association also named two new board members this month.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the HIA team at what is truly a pivotal moment for the association and the industry,” McGinness said.
“We wanted someone with a strong record of leadership when it comes to revamping non-profits, empowering diverse teams for success, and strategic planning and alignment,” said HIA President Rick Trojan.
