Medical Cannabis Commission Director

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for the implementation and day to day administration of Nebraska’s medical cannabis regulatory program. The position provides executive leadership, operational management, and strategic direction for the Commission and is responsible for administering the regulatory framework established under Nebraska law and Commission regulations governing the Nebraska medical cannabis program. The Director operates under the general policy direction of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commissioners and is responsible for executing Commission decisions, implementing regulatory programs, and overseeing all operational, administrative, fiscal, and regulatory functions of the agency. The position serves as the principal advisor to the Commissioners on regulatory policy, program implementation, legislative matters, and operational strategy.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, law, government, public policy, health policy, regulatory affairs, or a related field.
Experience or knowledge of public administration, regulatory programs, government operations, compliance programs, or organizational management.
Demonstrated leadership, management, or supervisory experience.
Ability to interpret statutes, regulations, and administrative policies.
Ability to communicate effectively with government officials, stakeholders, and the public.
Ability to oversee complex programs, coordinate multiple operational functions, and manage organizational priorities.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Equivalent combinations of education and professional experience demonstrating progressively responsible leadership or program administration may be considered in lieu of specific educational requirements.
This position will require some travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver’s license or another form of reliable transportation.
Regular and reliable attendance is required.

Nice To Haves

Senior leadership experience within a governmental, regulatory, or compliance-based organization.
Experience managing or implementing regulatory programs, licensing systems, or compliance frameworks.
Experience developing or implementing administrative rules, policies, or regulatory guidance.
Experience working with legislative bodies, providing policy analysis, or presenting testimony.
Experience managing public sector budgets, financial oversight, or fiscal planning.
Experience overseeing procurement processes, vendor contracts, or technology system implementations.
Experience with regulatory databases, licensing systems, seed to sale tracking systems, or program management technology platforms.
Experience coordinating with multiple governmental entities, regulatory bodies, or public stakeholders.
Knowledge of cannabis regulatory frameworks or other highly regulated industries such as alcohol, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or financial services.

Responsibilities

Provides executive leadership for the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission and directs the overall administration of the state medical cannabis regulatory program.
Implements policies adopted by the Commission and ensures program operations align with statutory authority, Commission regulations, and established regulatory objectives.
Establishes agency priorities, operational goals, and performance standards to ensure effective, transparent, and accountable program administration.
Advises Commissioners on policy options, regulatory issues, legislative impacts, and administrative strategy.
Oversees development of internal policies, procedures, and operational controls necessary to administer the program.
Administers and oversees implementation of statutes, Commission rules, and regulatory frameworks of the medical cannabis program.
Oversees development of proposed administrative rules and regulations for Commission consideration and coordinates the formal rulemaking process.
Ensures consistent application of regulatory standards, licensing requirements, compliance protocols, and administrative processes.
Monitors regulatory performance and identifies areas requiring policy updates, rule revisions, or statutory clarification.
Oversees licensing processes, registry administration, compliance monitoring, and regulatory review functions.
Provides executive oversight of compliance monitoring, investigations, and enforcement actions related to licensed medical cannabis establishments and program participants.
Ensures enforcement protocols, inspection procedures, and compliance monitoring systems are implemented consistently and in accordance with Commission regulations.
Coordinates enforcement activities with appropriate state and local agencies when necessary.
Directs all administrative operations of the Commission including staffing, organizational structure, workflow design, and internal operational controls.
With partnership with DAS Human Resource Shared Services, the Commission’s HR and payroll provider, the Director oversees recruitment, supervision, and performance management of agency personnel.
Establishes internal administrative policies and procedures to support effective program management and accountability.
Ensures the agency maintains appropriate documentation practices, records management systems, and operational reporting processes.
Prepares and administers the Commission’s operating budget including revenue projections, expenditure planning, and fiscal oversight.
Ensures appropriate use and management of program funds, regulatory fees, contracts, and operational expenditures.
Oversees financial reporting, audit readiness, and fiscal accountability processes.
Advises the Commission regarding fiscal impacts of regulatory decisions and operational initiatives.
Coordinates budget planning with state fiscal agencies and legislative staff as required.
Directs procurement planning, vendor selection, and contract administration for regulatory systems, professional services, and program infrastructure.
Oversees implementation and operation of regulatory technology platforms including licensing systems, registry systems, and statewide seed to sale tracking systems.
Coordinates system enhancements and technology improvements necessary to support regulatory oversight and program administration.
Provides policy analysis, legislative testimony, and regulatory expertise regarding legislation affecting the Nebraska medical cannabis program.
Coordinates with members of the Nebraska Legislature, legislative committees, and state agencies regarding regulatory implementation and program administration.
Advises Commissioners regarding legislative developments and potential impacts on the regulatory program.
Represents the Commission in intergovernmental coordination with state agencies, regulatory bodies, and public officials.
Coordinates with the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office regarding legal interpretation, regulatory compliance issues, enforcement matters, and litigation involving the Commission.
Serves as the primary administrative representative of the Commission to licensees, patients, caregivers, practitioners, policymakers, and the public.
Oversees development of public guidance materials, educational resources, and communications regarding regulatory requirements and program operations.
Represents the Commission at meetings, hearings, legislative proceedings, and public forums.

Benefits

13 paid holidays
Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
Military leave
156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
79% employer paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
Training and Development based on your career aspirations
Fun, inviting teammates
A safe and secure environment