Job Profile: Cannabis Director of Operations
A Cannabis Director of Operations (DO) is a leadership role within a cannabis company responsible for overseeing and optimizing the day-to-day operational activities of the business, particularly in areas related to production and manufacturing.
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What is a Cannabis Director of Operations?
The Director of Operations in the cannabis industry acts as a crucial link between the company’s strategic vision and its operational execution, ensuring the efficient and compliant production of high-quality cannabis products.
What Does a Cannabis Director of Operations Do?
A Cannabis Director of Operations serves as a vital link between the company’s strategic vision and its operational execution, ensuring efficient and compliant production of high-quality cannabis products. Below are some key responsibilities and what the role entails.
Strategic Planning & Leadership
- Develops and implements operational strategies aligned with the company’s overall goals.
- Leads and motivates teams, fostering a positive work environment and ensuring efficient performance.
- Works with other departments, including executive management, finance, sales, and marketing to coordinate efforts and ensure product quality and service delivery.
Production & Manufacturing Oversight
- Oversees all aspects of cannabis cultivation, processing, and manufacturing, including cultivation, propagation, post-harvest, extraction, manufacturing, packaging, and fulfillment.
- Manages production schedules, timelines, inventory control, and quality standards to meet revenue expectations and ensure efficient operations.
- Ensures the facility is safe and compliant with all relevant regulations.
Compliance & Regulatory Adherence
- Ensures strict compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations governing cannabis production and distribution.
- Works closely with legal and compliance teams to maintain adherence to regulations.
Team Management & Development
- Hires, trains, mentors, coaches, and develops team members to achieve desired outcomes.
- Manages staff from different departments and provides constructive feedback.
Continuous Improvement & Optimization
- Identifies areas for improvement in operational processes and implements changes to policies or processes.
- Works to optimize operations for profitability without compromising quality.
How Do You Become a Cannabis Director of Operations?
Becoming a Cannabis Director of Operations involves a combination of education, experience, and skills in both general operations and the cannabis industry, along with a strong understanding of relevant regulations and compliance requirements.
Education & Training
A bachelor’s degree in business administration, operations management, or a related field is typically required. However, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a similar master’s degree is preferred, as it can enhance your qualifications and competitiveness, especially for larger organizations. Additionally, completing cannabis-specific education programs or certifications that focus on cultivation, processing, retail, or compliance can help you stand out as a candidate.
Experience
Extensive experience, typically over 5 years, in a high-volume operations leadership position is essential, preferably within a regulated industry such as pharmacy, retail, or manufacturing. Experience in the cannabis industry is highly desirable, encompassing roles in cultivation, processing, retail, or distribution. A proven ability to lead and manage teams, develop budgets, and implement efficient processes is also required.
Key Skills
Candidates should possess a strong understanding of production, supply chain management, quality control, and logistics. Additionally, they must be well-versed in state and local cannabis regulations, compliance requirements, and licensing procedures. The roles require the ability to lead and motivate teams, manage budgets, and ensure operational efficiency. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills are essential, along with a solid understanding of financial statements, budgeting, and cost management.
Career Progression
Many individuals who become Chief Operating Officers (COOs) start in lower-level roles, gaining experience in operations management or related positions within the cannabis industry. As they network and seek new opportunities, they build connections within the industry. They then progress to advanced roles such as operations manager, cultivation manager, or dispensary manager to gain broader experience.
How Much Does a Cannabis Director of Operations Make?
The Cannabis Director of Operations salary can vary depending on the state where you work and the company you work for. According to the CannabizTeam Salary Guide, the salary for this role ranges from $113,000 to $171,300 per year.
| Year | Low | Median | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $113,000 | $139,000 | $165,000 |
| 2024 | $114,300 | $142,800 | $171,300 |
2024 CannabizTeam Guide for a Cannabis Director of Operations salary
The closest related job in the BLS is Top Executives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wages for general and operations managers was $102,950 in May 2024. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $47,420, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $239,200.
| Source | Average Annual Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| BLS | $102,950 | $47,420 to $239,200 |
Larger and more established cannabis operations in states with legalized cannabis may offer higher salaries, especially if they require significant experience and expertise in cultivation management.
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