Europe is currently the world’s most dynamic cannabis market and policy, particularly after Germany passed its first adult-use law. Malta, Luxembourg and Germany are also legalizing cannabis for adults, while most European countries have legalized medical cannabis.
Entrepreneurs, investors, and industry service providers will have more opportunities as cannabis policies and regulatory modernization continue to expand across Europe. In this way, global cannabis will be paying attention to the emerging industry in Europe. The continent’s top cannabis executives are listed below (in no specific order).
Will Muecke – Co-Founder and Managing Member, Artemis Growth Partners
Will Muecke, a managing member and co-founder of Artemis Growth Partners is dedicated to 100% investing in the global cannabis industry. Artemis Growth Partners manages US$400+ million of discretionary assets (AUM), which are invested across the cannabis value chain. This includes branded products and distributors as well as value-added services providers, ancillary companies and research-driven development platforms. Muecke’s investing philosophy is based on the practices and principles of world-class strategy, governance and the creation of value throughout the entire investment process.
Finn Hänsel – CEO and Founder, Sanity Group GmbH
Finn Hänsel is a pioneering entrepreneur and one of the leading voices in the European cannabis industry. Hansel’s work extends beyond his entrepreneurship. He advocates for cannabis policies that are based on evidence, which has made him a significant contributor to the dialogue surrounding the legalization and decriminalization of marijuana in Europe. With over 12 years of experience across various sectors—ranging from consumer goods and insurance to pharmaceuticals—Hänsel has established himself as a serial entrepreneur with a proven track record of founding successful companies. He founded brands such as THE ICONIC, Berliner Berg Craft Beer, Sportsecondhand, ValmanoThen, Petobel.
For the past seven years, Hänsel has served as the CEO of Sanity Group GmbHIt is one of Europe’s largest cannabis firms. Under Hänsel’s leadership, Sanity has quickly established itself as a leader in the German cannabis market, where it maintains a robust distribution network with over 2,000 pharmacies working with approximately 5,000 physicians in Germany. Sanity also participates in the Swiss recreational marijuana pilot program, and announced plans to increase its retail footprint. plus Enter the recreational pilot program in Germany when it’s officially launched by the government. Sanity holds around 10% of the German Medical Cannabis market, since 2024 was launched. Organigram has most recently invested 21 million Canadian dollars in Sanity. [NASDAQ:OGI] Through the purchase of a minor stake, they hope to enhance their partnership with these global leaders.
Alex Rogers – CEO and Executive Producer, International Cannabis Business Conference
Alex Rogers, a visionary businessman and political activist who has founded several cannabis companies over the last 30 years is an influential businessman. He is the mastermind behind the International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC)—the first and largest international business conference producing events across multiple continents. Rogers is a polyglot and has lived in several countries. He was therefore well-positioned to establish the premier conference for Europe. He is renowned worldwide for connecting elite industry leaders and recently launched the members-only Talman House, created to connect entrepreneurs who need capital with investors ready to deploy capital in Europe’s emerging industry. He is a Magna Cum Laude Political Science Graduate, and his passion lies in using his influence to help shape global cannabis policies. Rogers is a successful advocate for cannabis reform globally and works in Slovenia helping advocates to modernize medical cannabis policies. Rogers’ foundational collaboration with Jack Herer has cemented his legacy both as an international cannabis entrepreneur, and a policy influencer.
George Bellow – CO-Founder, SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals LTD
George Bellow, a veteran entrepreneur and seasoned businessman with experience in managing businesses across countries has proven to be a great entrepreneur. An expert in European medical cannabis distribution, he brings in-depth knowledge of regulatory frameworks and a valuable network of industry contacts to SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals. Bellow is an expert in European medical cannabis distribution. He has co-developed codes of conduct with the European Vending Association and exited successfully a tech start-up, showing his ability to create shareholder value. With leadership experience at SOMAÍ, Belka VR, UVENCO, and Mili.ru, and credentials including a BBA and an MBA in Entrepreneurship, and experience in aviation, Bellow is a visionary leader driving innovation and growth.
Jamie L Pearson – Founder and President, New Holland Group
Jamie Pearson founded and leads The New Holland Group (NHG), a global consulting firm serving clients in need of expert assistance in international business development & strategy, operations, branding & marketing, capital raising, executive coaching, and monetizing IP across borders. Before NHG, Jamie spent seven years, including three as the President & CEO, of Bhang Inc. [CSE:BHNG]One of the most awarded edible infused brands in the world is. She led the global expansion plan, ran the capital markets division, and was the face of the brand–catapulting Bhang from a California favorite to a multi-national phenomenon.
Pearson’s clients include some of the world’s most influential business leaders, such as global brands and MSOs. They also represent governments, international trade organizations, and government agencies. Her “boots on ground” understanding of North American markets and her deep Rolodex make Pearson a sought-after speaker for conferences worldwide. She also sits on several advisory boards, including Dope Drinks Marley One Unlock Healthcare The cannabis Summit Hello Again. Pearson will be the Keynote Speaker at ICBC Barcelona on March 13, 2025.
Lisa Haag – Founder, MJ Universe GmbH
Lisa Haag has worked as a dedicated and active contributor in the European cannabis sector for the past decade. She is on a mission to build collaborations and bridges between industries, borders and regulatory frameworks to help shape cannabis’ future globally. Haag, in addition to being the CEO of MJ Universe and a board director at BvCW (German Cannabis Industry Association), coordinates all activities related to technology, commerce and service. Her passion for global legalization is evident in her work to match industry practices and regulations with the needs of markets. Haag is committed to helping others succeed, especially women who work in the cannabis industry.
Constantine von der Groeben – Cofounder and Managing Director, DEMECAN
Constantine von der Groeben, co-founder of DEMECAN and its managing director, has over ten years’ experience in the legal field and internationally. DEMECAN is the only German medical cannabis company. Von der Groeben holds a Master of Laws degree from New York University, and a PhD from University of Cologne in International Law. He also served as Referent for the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy where he provided advice on investment and trade issues. Von der Groeben, as co-founder and managing Director of DEMECAN oversees legal, regulatory and commercial aspects of the business. She works alongside a passionate and diverse team in order to deliver high-quality cannabis to pharmacies and patients.
Peter Homberg – Partner, gunnercooke
Peter Homberg has been a leading cannabis expert for many years. Homberg specializes in life sciences, IP and corporate law, and M&A transactions. Homberg is one of the few people in the world who has as much experience advising clients on compliance with medical cannabis laws. Homberg is an experienced speaker and has presented at many cannabis conferences and seminars. He was a regular presenter for the International Cannabis Business Conference.
Shai Ramsahai – President, Royal Queen Seeds
Shai Ramsahai is a cannabis industry veteran and entrepreneur who grew up with Royal Queen Seeds (RQS) and uses his intimate knowledge to guide the company’s international expansion. Shai Ramsahai is the son of RQS founder Boy Ramsahai. He has worked in the cannabis industry for over 20 years, first as a packager, then as an online order support specialist, European Sales Team Manager, and finally as President. Shai is now the head of RQS, overseeing its international expansion. He uses his knowledge and understanding of diverse cultures to help negotiate strategic business partnerships and manage RQS’s management teams in other countries. RQS under Shai’s leadership has seen several breakthrough initiatives, such as taking over NYC Time Square during 4/20. He also partnered with Mike Tyson in a Tyson2.0 x RQS collaborative and opened a flagship office in Thailand. Shai’s position as a leader in seeds and genetics at RQS has made him one of the top executives worldwide. He is originally from Holland but now lives in Malaga, Spain. Shai spends his time relaxing on the beaches, spending time with two of his daughters, or exploring the world.
Kai-Friedrich Niermann – Cannabis Lawyer, KFN+
Kai-Friedrich Niermann stands out for his expertise and diversity in the cannabis sector. He provides legal assistance to individuals and companies with his broad expertise in business and cannabis law. He provides cannabis companies, from contract drafting to company formation, with tailored solutions for all legal issues, and even white-collar crime law when necessary. Niermann also writes the cannabiz.legal blog, in which he establishes himself as an authority on the cannabis industry. Canna.biz.legal offers insight into current cannabis laws in Germany and Europe, as well as resources and information for interested parties and businesses. Niermann is a highly sought after contact because of his deep knowledge and understanding of this complex legal environment.
Anna-Sophia Kouparanis – Co-Founder, Bloomwell Group
Anna-Sophia Kouparanis is co-founder of German cannabis holding company Bloomwell Group, as well as founder of medical cannabis wholesaler Ilios Santé GmbH, making her the first woman in Germany to launch such a business. In 2022 the Bloomwell Group completed a round of seed funding worth over $10 million, which was at that time the largest seed investment ever made by a European medical cannabis company.
Sergio Martinez Béjar– CEO, Blimburn Seeds and BBG Projects
Sergio Martinez Béjar, CEO of Blimburn Seeds and BBG Projects, is a renowned pioneer in the European cannabis industry, based on his 20+ years of experience in wholesale seed distribution, music, fashion, journalism, event organization and e-commerce ventures. His experience in the cannabis industry is extensive, having built, run, advised and sold multiple ventures. He has become a well-respected figure. Based out of Barcelona, Béjar is the CEO of Blimburnseeds.com, a leading cannabis seed retailer, and of BBG Projects, a leading seed wholesale company. Béjar’s deep understanding of how to monetize global trends positions him as a key player with decades of experience in Europe’s nascent and emerging seed markets.
Jürgen Bickel – Managing Director and Co-Founder, STORZ & BICKEL
Jürgen Bickel is the Managing Director and co-founder of STORZ & BICKEL, a manufacturer of high-quality medical vaporizers based in Tuttlingen, Germany. VOLCANO was the very first certified medical cannabis vaporizer in the world and is still the standard for physicians, researchers and consumers. Jürgen Bickel holds a degree in civil engineering and, prior to starting at STORZ & BICKEL, managed a development aid project for drinking water supply in Peru for 5 years. His experience in planning and organizing large-scale projects was of great benefit to him as Managing Director of STORZ & BICKEL, and together with Markus Storz, he established the successful, globally operating brand.
Sita Shubert – Secretary General, European Medical Cannabis Association
Sita Schubert is an accomplished attorney with extensive expertise in facilitating market access for international enterprises and start-ups such as Tilray Europe, across Germany and Austria. Her comprehensive knowledge spans product launches, approval transfers, clinical trials, regulatory compliance and business practices. Schubert excels in steering products through every stage—from development and approval to production and marketing. As a consultant, she offers invaluable support in establishing companies and start-ups, ensuring smooth market access. She has designed and led the “Road Map from Science to Business” mentoring and training program, which prepares future management to navigate complex industry landscapes effectively.