Richard Willems: Vice President, BC Craft Farmers co-op
MEET RICHARD WILLEMS: VICE PRESIDENT & VISIONARY IN BC CRAFT CANNABIS
Position: Vice President, BC Craft Farmers Co-op; Committee Chair: Quality Standards & Workplace Safety; Specialization: Cannabis Quality Assurance and Production Management
Contact: For inquiries or collaboration opportunities, email Richard at richard@hmocannabis.com
Serving as the Vice President of the BC Craft Farmers Co-op and as a key figure at High Mountain Organics in Lillooet, Richard has adeptly applied his expertise in Good Production Practices (GPP) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). His role significantly enhances the efficiency and compliance of the industry, setting new benchmarks for quality and operational excellence.
FROM FOOD INDUSTRY VETERAN TO BC CANNABIS INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Spanning a remarkable three decades, Richard Willems’ career journey from the food and craft beer sector to a leadership role in the cannabis industry brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to BC’s craft cannabis scene.
CRAFT CANNABIS CULTIVATOR AND PROCESSOR
In collaboration with master growers like Robin at High Mountain Organics, Richard’s deep connection with the craft cannabis community flourishes. His commitment to organic and sustainable cultivation methods, coupled with his status as a Quality Assurance Professional recognized by Health Canada, ensures the highest quality in cannabis production. This commitment extends beyond production to nurturing a fair, sustainable, and equitable industry, uplifting small communities and enriching the local economy.
ADVOCACY AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
In his Co-op role, Richard passionately champions the needs of small-scale cannabis farmers and processors. He advocates for essential regulatory reforms, particularly in taxation, aiming to level the playing field. His leadership is key in establishing a cooperative ecosystem, enhancing the competitiveness of small farmers in the market.
A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH TO INDUSTRY GROWTH
Recognizing the significance of teamwork, Richard skilfully merges his manufacturing and quality control knowledge with his team’s diverse skill set. This collaborative endeavor, involving retail experience, legacy growing expertise, inventory management, quality assurance, compliance, plays a pivotal role in promoting a more inclusive and thriving BC craft cannabis industry.
VISION FOR A THRIVING CRAFT CANNABIS SECTOR IN BC
Central to Richard’s vision is the empowerment of small farmers and processors. His dedication to advocating for fair taxation and regulatory reforms underscores his commitment to offering his quality assurance expertise, especially to those who lack resources for full-time staff.
FUTURE PROSPECTS: TOURISM AND BEYOND
Looking ahead, Richard envisions “BC Bud” spearheading a thriving tourism industry. His aspiration to create a diverse and sustainable cannabis industry is poised to contribute significantly to British Columbia’s social and economic fabric.
BC CANNABIS SUMMIT PRINCE GEORGE 4/20/24
Richard’s participation in the previous BC Craft Cannabis Summits has deepened his commitment to the cooperative movement. He empathizes with the challenges legacy growers face in transitioning to legal operations and advocates for a collective approach to support this vital change.
Join the Movement: Shaping the Future of Cannabis
Richard Willems embodies innovation and community spirit in the craft cannabis industry. His journey from the food production sector to cannabis leadership has set a high standard, establishing him as a pivotal figure in shaping the future of craft cannabis in BC and beyond.
To actively participate in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and thriving cannabis industry, connect with Richard at richard@hmocannabis.com.