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Tyneeha Rivers is the chief people officer at Curaleaf, one of New York’s medical cannabis companies. Rivers answered eight simple questions for NY Cannabis Insider’s “People to know” series.
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What is your position and what do you/your company do in the cannabis space?
I’m the chief people officer, and lead the human resources, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, and corporate social responsibility functions at Curaleaf.
How long have you worked in the cannabis space?
Three years.
What did you do before you were involved in the cannabis industry?
I managed human resources in the sports and entertainment and nonprofit industries.
What led you to the cannabis industry?
I believe in the “power of the plant”. I used to suffer from anxiety, insomnia, and debilitating migraines and tried everything and nothing worked until I was introduced to cannabis. I’m an advocate for this wonderful flower while getting to fulfill my passions in leading the People & Culture, DEIB, and CSR teams.
Do you have any advice for someone looking to get into the NY weed industry?
First, learn as much as you can about cannabis. The more educated you are, the bigger impact you can make in this industry. Network, network, and network! Before joining a company, truly understand the organization’s vision, mission, and values to ensure that theirs are aligned with yours.
What do you think the NY cannabis ecosystem will look like in five years?
My hope is that New York will develop a vibrant and dynamic cannabis ecosystem over the next five years. That will require major growth in the number of retail dispensaries, streamlined and adaptable regulatory processes, and a robust effort to support the legal market.
I think everyone has an interest in making sure operators who do things the right way are supported, not only so that the state can generate more tax revenue, but so that entrepreneurs who were victimized by the War on Drugs have the resources they need to grow their business.
Right now, the state does not seem to have learned the lessons of other states – that rules and regulations must be dictated by fairness and market realities, not just politics – but I’m hopeful that over the next several years, they will work with the industry to figure out a workable path forward.
Do you use cannabis? If so, what’s your favorite method?
Yes, any indica… I’m truly all about the flower!
Who should contact you, and what’s the best method?