Jessica Ragel

People-first leader and systems-focused operator currently serving as Director of Operations at High Grade, overseeing a 135,000 sq. ft. vertically integrated indoor cultivation and manufacturing facility spanning cultivation, extraction, and edibles. I lead cross-functional teams, ensure regulatory compliance, and support statewide distribution to licensed retail partners. In parallel, I recently stepped into the role of Head of Operations for Rhinestone, a fast-growing non-alcoholic beverage startup. At Rhinestone, I focus on building scalable operational systems, supporting brand execution, and positioning the company for sustainable growth in the emerging non-alc space. My career began in food service and hospitality at age 15 before transitioning into the medical cannabis industry in 2014. Since then, I’ve developed a broad skill set supporting vertically integrated and CPG-driven organizations, with strengths in branding, production optimization, inventory control, compliance strategy, and supply chain forecasting. I’m driven by building strong teams, efficient systems, and brands that can scale—across both regulated and emerging markets.