Ms. Megan McCrae reports
ORGANIGRAM ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Organigram Global Inc., the parent company of Organigram Inc., has appointed James Yamanaka, formerly global head of strategy for British American Tobacco, as the company's new chief executive officer (CEO). Mr. Yamanaka is expected to assume the role effective on or about Jan. 15, 2026. Mr. Yamanaka will also join the company's board of directors when he assumes the role of chief executive officer.
Mr. Yamanaka is a seasoned executive, having spent more than 20 years at British American Tobacco, with extensive experience in strategy and general management across Europe and Asia. His career is distinguished by a strong record of creating value-driven strategies, transforming businesses and delivering outstanding commercial results.
As global head of strategy at BAT, Mr. Yamanaka was instrumental in developing the group strategy. Prior to his role as global head of strategy, he served as area director for North Asia (Japan and South Korea), where he achieved record market share in Japan. Before his role in Asia, Mr. Yamanaka successfully transformed BAT's Northern Europe Area from a traditional business into one positioned for rapid sustainable growth through the acquisition of a nicotine pouch business that has become the largest growth category for the BAT group.
Peter Amirault, current board chairman, has been appointed by the board to serve as executive chair on an interim basis effective Dec. 1, to oversee day-to-day management of the company until Mr. Yamanaka fully assumes the CEO role. During this period, Geoff Machum, chair of the board's governance, nominating and sustainability committee, will serve as the independent lead director. "We are excited to have James join the Organigram team," said Mr. Amirault. "James's history of driving strong international growth aligns perfectly with Organigram's global aspirations. His experience in building high-performing teams and delivering results will be invaluable as we expand our international presence."
"I am thrilled to take on this new challenge," said Mr. Yamanaka. "I have watched Organigram evolve into Canada's No. 1 recreational cannabis company by market share and believe it is well positioned to become a global leader in the cannabis industry. I look forward to building an international presence on Organigram's strong foundation of high-quality products, trusted brands and a commitment to industry-leading innovation."
Mr. Yamanaka holds a BA in political science and economics from UC San Diego, an MS in foreign service from Georgetown University and an MBA from London Business School. He will be based in Toronto, Ont. He will assume the role as CEO of Organigram following completion of required procedures including customary immigration matters.
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