Job Profile: Cannabis VP of Cultivation
A Cannabis VP (Vice President) of Cultivation is a high-level executive responsible for overseeing and directing all aspects of the cannabis cultivation process within a company.
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What is a Cannabis Vice President (VP) of Cultivation?
A VP of Cannabis Cultivation holds a high executive position within a cannabis company, typically overseeing multiple cultivation facilities or a vast cannabis cultivation operation. With a strong background in cannabis cultivation, business management, and strategic planning, the VP of Cannabis Cultivation plays a key role in developing the overall cultivation strategy and direction of the company.
What Does a Cannabis Vice President (VP) of Cultivation Do?
The VP of Cultivation directs, manages, participates, and provides support to the design, activities, and operations of the cultivation division of the organization, including its cannabis cultivation, harvest, drying, curing, and processing operations. These professionals collaborate closely with executive leadership to align cultivation goals with the company’s broader objectives.
- Developing and implementing the overall cultivation strategy.
- Overseeing cultivation operations across multiple facilities.
- Managing cultivation teams and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Maximizing production yields and ensuring consistent, high-quality cannabis production.
- Collaborating with other departments to achieve company objectives.
They make critical decisions regarding expansion and resource allocation, and implement best practices to ensure consistent and high-quality cannabis production across all facilities. Additionally, the VP of Cannabis Cultivation also represents the company in industry events and engages with stakeholders to foster partnerships and drive innovation in the cultivation sector.
How Much Does a Cannabis Vice President (VP) of Cultivation Make?
The Cannabis Salary Guide reports the annual salary for a cannabis tissue culture manager ranges from $175,000 to $337,600 with an average annual salary of $91,050.
| Cultivation Position | 2022 Annual Salary | 2023 Annual Salary | 2024 Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| VP of Cultivation | $237,500 | $256,300 | $287,800 (MSO) / $145,000 (SSO) |
| Director of Cultivation | $143,350 | $152,850 | $145,000 (MSO) / $120,750 (SSO) |
| Agronomist | $95,250 | $97,900 | $102,700 |
| Plant Breeder | $81,450 | $84,750 | $88,250 |
| Integrated Pest Manager | $73,700 | $75,800 | $77,650 |
| Tissue Culture Manager | $86,300 | $88,100 | $91,050 |
| Tissue Culture Technician | $71,500 | $74,350 | $76,100 |
| Cultivation Technician | $26,500 | $27,450 | $28,750 |
| Trimmer | $35,250 | $36,200 | $37,200 |
Pay at this level varies widely from a low of $240,000 to a high of $339,800 on average, with the median salary at $256,300, according to CannaBiz Team’s 2024 report. The average annual salary for a Cannabis Vice President (VP) of Cultivation can vary significantly depending on several factors, but some general ranges and averages can be provided.
| Source | Average Annual Salary | Range |
|---|---|---|
| CannabizTeam Worldwide | $287,800 | $240,000 to $339,800 |
| ZipRecruiter | $157,534 | $43,500 to $277,500 |
As with all jobs, salaries vary by geographic location, level of education, employer, and experience.
How Do You Become a Cannabis Vice President (VP) of Cultivation?
Becoming a Vice President (VP) of Cultivation in the cannabis industry requires a unique blend of horticultural expertise, business acumen, and strong leadership skills. Here’s a breakdown of the path and the key elements needed.
Cannabis Cultivation Experience
A minimum of 4 years of professional experience in commercial cannabis or horticulture production is required. Experience in both indoor and outdoor growing, with various media like rockwool, coco soil, and expanded clay pellets, is highly valued.
Plant Science Education
Possess a deep understanding of plant science, propagation, genetics, pest and disease management, nutrient regimens, harvesting, and post-harvest processes.
Good Agricultural Practices (GAPS)
Knowledge and experience with GAPS programs are preferred, demonstrating an understanding of how to reduce risks of microbial contamination and ensure product quality.
Facility Management Experience
Experience with automated systems (e.g., Priva, Argus, Growlink) and environmental controls, including lighting, HVAC, irrigation, CO2, and dehumidification, is crucial.
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