Cannabis Industry Council Appoints David Skinner and Chris Hayes as Non-Executive Board Directors
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – Tuesday, 2nd June, 2026 – The Cannabis Industry Council “(CIC)”, the leading membership organisation representing the UK’s regulated cannabis sector, announced today the appointment of David Skinner and Dr Chris Hayes as Non-Executive Directors to its Board, voted in by CIC members in e-ballot.
The appointment reinforces the CIC’s commitment to strong governance, regulatory engagement and evidence-led industry development as the trade organisation continues to advocate for the sustainable growth and professionalisation of the UK’s medical cannabis sector.
David Skinner joins the board as an experienced Director and Chief Financial Officer with more than 30 years of board-level leadership across healthcare, education, financial services, insurance, and other highly regulated industries. As a Chartered Accountant (FCA), David has extensive experience chairing audit, finance, investment, operations and commercial committees and has led organisations through complex regulatory and assurance environments. David’s expertise in governance, risk management, financial oversight and organisational accountability will support the CIC as it continues to strengthen its role as a trusted voice for the cannabis sector.
Chris Hayes brings more than 25 years of experience across life sciences, biotech, pharma, and law. He is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Sonas Pharmaceuticals, where he leads the development of novel optimised cannabinoid medicines, and Founder of Varex Bio, a company focused on phytocannabinoid medicine development. As a qualified barrister, Hayes previously helped shape the intellectual property strategy behind some of the world’s most significant cannabinoid-based medicines. He also serves as the Non-Executive Director of biotech companies and has advised the UK Cannabinoid R&D Strategy Group, bringing a unique combination of scientific, regulatory, legal and commercial expertise to the CIC Board.
Commenting on the appointments, Frances Crewdson, Co-Chair of the Cannabis Industry Council, said:
“We are delighted to welcome David and Chris to the CIC Board. Their combined expertise will be invaluable as we continue to champion the development of a responsible, evidence based cannabis industry here in the UK. Both individuals bring significant leadership experience and a deep understanding of highly regulated sectors, which will strengthen the CIC’s ability to represent and support our members.”
David Skinner said:
“I’m pleased to be joining the Board of the Cannabis Industry Council at such an important moment for the sector. I look forward to contributing my governance and financial experience to help strengthen accountability, support evidence‑based progress and champion sustainable growth across the UK’s regulated cannabis industry.”
Chris Hayes added:
“I’m pleased to be joining the Board of the Cannabis Industry Council at a pivotal point for cannabinoid science in the UK. My focus will be on strengthening the bridge between research, regulation, and clinical development to ensure that innovation is underpinned by robust evidence and clear regulatory pathways. I look forward to supporting CIC in advancing to meet its strategic goals, making this an internationally competitive sector.”
The appointments come as the CIC continues its work with policymakers, regulators, healthcare stakeholders, researchers and industry leaders to advance proportionate regulation, improve patient access, support innovation and promote higher standards across the UK’s cannabis and cannabinoid sectors.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
Media Contact:
Nicole Farah
Americana Communications Ltd.
About The Cannabis Industry Council (CIC)
Founded in 2021, The Cannabis Industry Council (CIC) is the leading membership organisation representing the UK’s regulated cannabis sector. The CIC brings together more than 100 member organisations spanning the full supply chain, alongside charities, clinical bodies, and research institutions working to advance the industry responsibly.
Dedicated to evidence-based policy and public education, the CIC works to raise the profile of the cannabis sector, improve patient access to medical cannabis prescriptions, and support the sustainable growth of the CBD and Hemp markets. Through collaboration, research and advocacy, the CIC believes that responsible access to medical cannabis can deliver meaningful benefits for public health, the environment and the UK economy.
For more information on the CIC, visit cicouncil.org.uk, and stay up to date on news from the CIC via LinkedIn, Instagram, and X (Twitter).
David Skinner & Chris Hayes, CIC Board Members
