Verano Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Verano has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, human resources, and legal affairs.

Committed to excellence in the cannabis sector, Verano delivers premium products through a vertically integrated model that prioritizes consumer safety, education, and community advocacy across the United States.

Leadership Roles at Verano

  • Co-Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - George Archos
  • Chief Operating Officer - Trip McDermott
  • Chief Marketing Officer - David Spreckman
  • Chief People Officer - Destiny Thompson
  • Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel - Laura Kalesnik
  • George Archos - Co-Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    George Archos, the Co-Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at Verano, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire organization. By overseeing the cultivation, production, and retail expansion of premium cannabis products, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent growth across all national markets. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to maintain high standards of quality and safety. George Archos drives the company mission by fostering innovation in product development and scaling operations to meet rising consumer demand. Through rigorous oversight of the vertically integrated supply chain, the Chief Executive Officer secures a competitive market position. The executive also manages investor relations and long-term financial planning to support sustainable expansion. By championing advocacy initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the brand presence within the industry, ensuring that the company remains a leader in the evolving cannabis landscape.
    George Archos

    Trip McDermott - Chief Operating Officer

    Trip McDermott, the Chief Operating Officer at Verano, manages the daily execution of cultivation and production workflows. Overseeing the complex logistics of a vertically integrated cannabis company, the Chief Operating Officer optimizes efficiency across all regional facilities. This role involves streamlining the supply chain to ensure that premium flower, edibles, and concentrates reach retail locations without delay. Trip McDermott drives operational excellence by implementing standardized safety protocols and quality control measures throughout the production cycle. By coordinating with regional managers, the Chief Operating Officer maintains consistent performance standards across the United States. The executive also monitors resource allocation to maximize output while minimizing waste. Through the integration of advanced technology in manufacturing processes, the Chief Operating Officer enhances overall productivity. This leadership focus ensures that the company maintains a reliable supply of wellness products to meet the diverse needs of the consumer base.
    Trip McDermott

    David Spreckman - Chief Marketing Officer

    David Spreckman, the Chief Marketing Officer at Verano, architects the brand identity and consumer engagement strategies for the entire product portfolio. Overseeing national marketing campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer promotes the company commitment to quality, safety, and education. This role involves developing targeted outreach programs that resonate with diverse demographics across the United States. David Spreckman drives market penetration by managing the launch of new wellness products and concentrates. By analyzing consumer trends and feedback, the Chief Marketing Officer refines the brand messaging to maintain a strong competitive edge. The executive also coordinates with retail teams to ensure that in-store experiences align with the broader corporate vision. Through strategic partnerships and community advocacy, the Chief Marketing Officer elevates the company profile within the cannabis industry. This leadership role focuses on building long-term brand loyalty while ensuring that all marketing efforts comply with complex regulatory requirements.
    David Spreckman

    Destiny Thompson - Chief People Officer

    Destiny Thompson, the Chief People Officer at Verano, directs the human capital strategy and organizational culture for the entire workforce. Overseeing talent acquisition, professional development, and employee retention, the Chief People Officer ensures that the company attracts top-tier professionals to support its growth. This role involves fostering an inclusive environment that aligns with the core mission of quality and education. Destiny Thompson drives internal initiatives that promote employee engagement and operational efficiency across all regional offices. By implementing robust training programs, the Chief People Officer equips staff with the necessary skills to excel in the competitive cannabis sector. The executive also manages compensation structures and performance management systems to incentivize high achievement. Through the development of strong leadership pipelines, the Chief People Officer secures the future stability of the organization. This role remains vital in maintaining a cohesive culture as the company continues to scale its operations nationwide.
    Destiny Thompson
    Laura Kalesnik, the Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel at Verano, manages all legal affairs and regulatory compliance for the company. Overseeing the complex legal landscape of the cannabis industry, the Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel ensures that all cultivation, production, and retail activities adhere to state and federal laws. This role involves providing strategic guidance to the executive team regarding risk management and corporate governance. Laura Kalesnik drives the protection of intellectual property and manages all contractual obligations across the United States. By monitoring legislative changes, the Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel proactively adjusts internal policies to maintain full compliance. The executive also oversees litigation and external legal counsel to safeguard the company interests. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel supports the company mission by mitigating legal exposure. This leadership role ensures that the organization operates with integrity and transparency in every market.
    Laura Kalesnik

    Explore Leadership Teams in Convenience Stores, Gas Stations & Liquor Stores

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Verano Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Verano?
    Verano is led by George Archos (Co-Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Trip McDermott (Chief Operating Officer) and David Spreckman (Chief Marketing Officer).
    Who is part of Verano’s executive team?
    The executive team of Verano includes leaders such as George Archos (Co-Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), Trip McDermott (Chief Operating Officer), David Spreckman (Chief Marketing Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Verano have?
    Verano has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Verano’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Verano includes roles such as Co-Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief People Officer, Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel.