Susanna Puntel is a recognized authority in cannabis and hemp policy, known for her unique ability
to blend public policy expertise with strategic business insight. Based in New Jersey, Susanna
advises clients across the public and private sectors, championing responsible cannabis
development with an unwavering commitment to equity, education, and impact.

Her diverse clientele ranges from local governments and prospective license holders to established
multi-state operators in both medical and adult-use cannabis markets. With a reputation for
versatility and depth of knowledge, Susanna provides high-value services including stakeholder
engagement, policy development, consensus building, public sector education, and customized
regulatory strategies. Whether guiding “opt-in” or “opt-out” municipalities, she delivers tailored
solutions that bridge political, economic, and community needs.

A respected leader in the industry, Susanna has played a pivotal role in shaping New Jersey’s
cannabis landscape. She co-founded and led two key organizations: the New Jersey Cannabis
Equity Association, which centers equity and inclusion in cannabis policymaking, and the New
Jersey Cannabis Trade Association, open to all licensed cannabis operators in the state. She
previously served as Policy Director for the New Jersey Cannabis Industry Association and as a
Strategic Advisor to the New Jersey CannaBusiness Association.

On the national stage, Susanna sits on the National Council of the American Trade Association
for Cannabis and Hemp (ATACH) and serves as ATACH’s New Jersey Liaison for State Advocacy
and Public Policy. Her work frequently takes her to Washington, D.C., where she collaborates with
leading stakeholders shaping the future of cannabis and hemp regulation across the country.
Among her most impactful contributions is the creation of a comprehensive “Municipal Toolkit”,
designed to educate local governments on regulatory and policy considerations surrounding
intoxicating hemp products—a resource recognized for its practical utility and thought leadership.

Susanna’s career is distinguished by its multidimensionality. Her past experiences span executive
leadership in the insurance sector, founding and running a successful test prep and college advising
company, grassroots community organizing in Brooklyn, and teaching high school theology. This
breadth informs her holistic approach to cannabis and hemp policy—one that embraces health and
wellness, social justice, entrepreneurship, and regulated business development.

Her recent work includes drafting model legislation, supporting academic-industry research
collaborations, advising investors on cannabis ventures, creating Corporate Social Responsibility
frameworks, and preparing comprehensive license applications. Clients value her strategic insight,
collaborative spirit, and ability to move seamlessly between policy, education, advocacy, and
implementation.