Koetsier appointed MCIA Chair

Medicinal Cannabis Industry Australia (MCIA) has announced Peter Crock will step down as Chair, with Director Peter Koetsier appointed in his place effective immediately.

Speaking at MCIA’s AGM on Wednesday, Mr Crock confirmed he will remain on the board as a director to ensure a smooth transition and support the new chair.

Mr Koetsier is the Chief Executive Officer of Cann Group Limited, Australia’s first commercially licensed medicinal cannabis cultivator and manufacturer, having taken over the role from Mr Crock in January this year.

Mr Koetsier boasts more than 30 years of general management, marketing and commercial leadership roles within global pharmaceutical companies and has held leadership positions on industry representative boards previously.

Mr Crock said, “After seven long years in the pressure cooker of a nascent industry, I have decided it is the right time for me to hand the baton on. It has been an honour and a privilege to be at the forefront of such an important opportunity, to break the shackles and stigma of prohibition, and provide all important access to effectively a new class of compound to medicine in Australia and around the world.”

Mr Koetsier added, “It is an honour and a privilege to accept this role to represent the MCIA member companies. I’d like to acknowledge the valuable role Peter Crock has played in guiding this industry through its early years. Peter’s work to develop strong industry relationships with government representatives and departments has allowed MCIA to have a strong voice for change. He has led MCIA through a time of unprecedented growth in patient access and acceptance of our industry. I look forward to continuing the work to facilitate the growth, development and reputation of the medicinal cannabis industry.”