Lexington, KY (February 20, 2020) – U.S. Hemp Roundtable, the leading coalition of U.S. hemp companies, today announced the appointment of Ola Lessard to the role of U.S. Hemp Roundtable President.

Simultaneously, Josh Hendrix will move to the role of Chairman, following his past year of dedicated work as the organization’s president.

“It’s an honor to be elected President of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable at such a pivotal time,” said Ola Lessard, President of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable. “2020 promises to be a landmark year at a time when we are laser-focused on pushing a path forward for hemp and CBD working with Congress, the FDA, and also very importantly, at the state level. This important work, and its effectiveness, is key to the future of the American farmer, small and large health retailers alike, and to the many people and businesses benefiting from the potential and promise unlocked by this surging industry.”

Ola Lessard brings over two decades of experience in communications and advocacy to her new role. Lessard has served as vice president of marketing & communications at Barlean’s since 2015, and has been active on the board of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable since Barlean’s joined in 2018. She has been elected to a one-year term.

“Josh Hendrix led the organization and industry through unprecedented growth. Undoubtedly, his contribution as chairman will continue to be momentous. Importantly, I want to congratulate Ola Lessard on being elected president. I am confident she will be the strong leader we need to drive the industry forward at this vital juncture. Lessard’s leadership combined with the urgent need to regulate hemp is the right direction at the right time.” said Jonathan Miller, General Counsel to the U.S. Hemp Roundtable.

“Further, we are pleased to see continued female leadership throughout the industry. Female executives are a driving force for progress within the hemp industry and we’re confident that during this key time, Ola’s leadership will help the U.S. Hemp Roundtable lead the way forward.”

About U.S. Hemp Roundtable

The U.S. Hemp Roundtable is the industry’s preeminent advocacy organization representing the most influential hemp organizations and businesses -- leading the way forward -- promoting safe and legal hemp and CBD products.



View resource website