Andrew Wells

The cannabis industry is maturing. The strategies running most of it haven't. I founded Cannabis Strategy Advisors to close that gap; bringing institutional-grade operating and commercial strategy to operators, investors, and brands who are serious about building something that lasts in one of the most complex regulated markets in the country. What we work on: → GTM & Commercial Strategy: Building the go-to-market infrastructure, sales motion, and market entry strategy to win and hold market share in highly competitive, regulated environments → Operating Model & Scaling: Designing the org structures, accountability systems, and operational frameworks that let high-growth cannabis businesses scale without breaking → M&A & Capital Advisory: Supporting operators and investors through acquisition strategy, deal structuring, and the financial rigor that most cannabis transactions are missing → Brand Strategy & Market Positioning: Developing the brand identity, positioning, and commercial narrative that separates category leaders from everyone else

I joined Sorting Robotics as employee #7, with a front-row seat to our evolution from scrappy startup to industry leader in cannabis automation. Now as Director of Sales, I lead more than transactions—I drive strategy, partnerships, and measurable growth. • Began as Chief of Staff, wearing hats across finance, operations, investor relations, and customer success • Helped architect our go-to-market strategy, pricing models, and financing programs from the ground up • Bring unmatched institutional knowledge into every deal—because I helped build the products I now sell • Partner with cannabis brands, co-packers, and MSOs to identify automation gaps and deliver ROI-driven solutions • Lead high-impact deployments of the Jiko+ and Stardust robots, streamlining pre-roll and infused product production at scale • Bridge boardroom strategy with trade show hustle, leading with transparency, empathy, and results • Passionate about helping operators scale smart—not just fast If you want to talk automation, efficiency, or what truly moves the needle, let’s connect!

Head of Brand at Rise Co Packing, leading brand strategy and go-to-market execution in a competitive cannabis manufacturing environment. Built and launched “Jiko Joints” from the ground up, developing the brand identity, positioning, and product narrative within the infused pre-roll category. Scaled distribution into 30 dispensaries by aligning product, pricing, and retail strategy to drive adoption and shelf velocity.

Led operations and P&L management for a prestigious vineyard tasting room and wine brand, driving revenue growth and brand visibility. Responsible for all aspects of strategic planning, human resources, business development, marketing, sales, product management, and finance. • Developed key performance indicators (KPIs) to track customer satisfaction, average transaction value, and daily sales performance, optimizing tasting room operations. • Created all marketing assets, including tasting menus, signage, and provided strategic input on wine label design. • Spearheaded the development of a branded clothing line, managing the process from concept to launch. • Directed all wine-related activities on the property, including vineyard management, winemaking, tasting room operations, live music programming, and special wine events. • Scaled the tasting room from pre-revenue to $250,000 in revenue within nine months. Key Skills: Financial & Strategic Management | Growth & Brand Marketing | Business Development | Executive Leadership | Multi-Channel Marketing | Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) | Capital Budgeting | Performance Analytics | Relationship Building | Event Management

• Generated both b2b and b2c customers through effective proactive digital marketing and email marketing strategies. • International business development role – by engaging c-level and government contacts to achieve growth goals. • Innovatively identified and resolved problems for the company, built alliances and partnerships with other organizations, and supported worker communication with the management team. • Leveraged operation management skills to ensure products, services meet standards of quality by 85% and cost-effectiveness by 92%. • Personally opened Whole Foods account via cold e-mail – launched in 20 stores in the Southern Pacific region.

• Solely managed 100+ volunteer leaders across 15 chapters throughout the United States. • Cultivated substantial relationships with staff by creating a cohesive and productive team in a deadline-driven environment. • Frequently commended for quick-thinking and resourcefulness. • Aided University Advancement leadership with project support, data tracking, and administrative tasks which reduced Association operating costs by 40%. • Coached in conversion knowledge + overcoming objections training. • Motivated and helped my associates to maintain focus with the task at hand

Oversaw daily operations, strategic direction, and financial performance for SIP Malibu Winebar, Cielo Malibu Wine Club, and multiple retail ventures within Cielo Malibu Estate Vineyards. Reporting directly to the owner, I developed and executed business plans, sales strategies, and targeted marketing campaigns—driving significant membership growth, retention, and overall brand expansion. My responsibilities included budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management, as well as leading tasting room employees and the wine club manager to ensure consistent customer experiences. This executive-level role required a high degree of strategic vision, financial acumen, and operational oversight to achieve sustained growth and profitability.

• Innovated and expanded the reach with key corporate, business, and travel industry accounts. • Manager on duty role – proactively interacting with guests via the manager’s evening social hours. • Solicited, negotiated, and booked new and repeat clients using multiple channels, such as social media, outside calls, and cold calling tactics. • Introduced new gasket lines into the market, often closing sight-unseen sales of newly released products. • Demonstrated an unwavering commitment to customer service, adding new customers while maintaining premium service levels with existing accounts.

• Orchestrated $500,000 fire remodel project for multifamily unit triplex and $1.7 million commercial remodel project from plans to completion. • Bid out $15 million 150-unit multifamily apartment complex project and positively impacted overall net profit margin by 20%. • Accelerated knowledge retention with thought leadership insights on the business and management imperatives in the construction industry. • Collaborated with the Managing Partner to source opportunities and win business/projects for the company. • Evaluated performance of the organization in meeting objectives and determine where costs can be reduced, what can be improved and what should be changed • Conferred with staff to discuss issues, coordinate activities or resolve problems • Took corrective action to solve organizational problems

Representing Tenants in Lease Transactions in Malibu during my third and fourth year while attending Pepperdine University. In addition, I also assisted the owner of Prudential Malibu Real Estate with office tasks as needed. Held Open Houses for other agents in the office

Chemistry-based Biology program with strong focus on cellular and molecular biology.

Chosen for the highly competitive Young Engineering and Science Scholars program