[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced they have opened an expanded application process, including the use of a dedicated professional recruiter from Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB), to complete the national search for the new director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). They also formally appointed Charlene Briner as interim director of OCM.

"I’m excited to have Charlene Briner leading this office while we continue our national search for a permanent director,” said Governor Walz. “For the last eight months, Charlene has worked tirelessly across state agencies to build the new Office of Cannabis Management from the ground up. I’m grateful for the work being done to not only revamp our vetting process but also expand our recruiting process. Today’s news marks months of work to modernize state government as we work to remain competitive with the private sector and bring talented executives into public service.”

“Charlene Briner is a highly-qualified leader who has delivered great results for the state of Minnesota in several roles. I’m grateful for Charlene’s dedication and effectiveness in standing up the Office of Cannabis Management,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “As we continue the search for a permanent director, I know she will continue to move the office and implementation forward.”

Charlene Briner has led OCM implementation since June of 2023, and has successfully built a team at OCM, started the stakeholder outreach for the rulemaking process, and coordinated cross-agency work to stand up the new office within the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Briner previously served as deputy commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Department of Education.

As part of its role as the state’s human resources department, MMB oversees the overall recruitment strategy throughout the state, region, and nation – using dedicated professional recruiters and employment events.

On May 30, 2023, Governor Walz signed a bill making Minnesota the 23rd state to legalize adult-use cannabis. The law established OCM to regulate cannabis, issue licenses, and develop regulations outlining how and when businesses can participate in the industry. The director serves as the chief executive and administrative officer of OCM and plays a key leadership role in establishing and regulating the new adult-use cannabis market in Minnesota.

Applications will be accepted through Monday, February 26, with a final candidate to be named at the conclusion of the search.

Those interested can find more information and apply for the position through the Minnesota Careers website. More information about the Office of Cannabis Management and the director position can be found here.

.