Nicole Canna First Financial, a premier financial services firm specializing in cannabis banking solutions across the United States, is proud to announce the appointment of Nicole Perry, CCBP, CBPA, CTM, PBC-1, as its new Director of National Sales. With an impressive career spanning over two decades in the financial services sector, Perry brings unparalleled expertise in banking, business development, and cannabis-specific financial solutions. Her appointment marks a significant step in Canna First Financial’s mission to provide innovative, compliant, and secure banking solutions to businesses operating within the expanding legal cannabis industry.
A Strategic Leadership Appointment
Nicole As Director of National Sales, Perry will spearhead Canna First Financial’s efforts in business expansion and strategic development, focusing on strengthening the firm’s presence in states with established cannabis programs. Her role encompasses overseeing national sales and marketing initiatives, engaging with key industry stakeholders, and fostering relationships with cannabis-related businesses seeking specialized financial services. Additionally, Perry will lead social media and trade show engagement, ensuring that Canna First Financial remains at the forefront of industry developments and regulatory changes.
“We are thrilled to welcome Nicole to the CannaFirst team,” said Jeffery Trammell, Chief Operations Officer of Merchants & Marine Bancorp and Director of CannaFirst Financial. “Her extensive background in specialty banking, business growth, and cannabis financial services makes her an invaluable addition to our leadership team. Her vision and expertise will be instrumental in strengthening our position as a trusted partner in cannabis banking.”
Extensive Experience in Cannabis Financial Services
Nicole Perry’s extensive experience in cannabis banking is a testament to her deep understanding of the industry’s unique challenges and opportunities. She joins CannaFirst Financial after serving as Cannabis Banking Program Manager at Credit Union 1, where she played a critical role in restructuring and expanding its cannabis banking program. Her leadership in this role involved streamlining operations, enhancing compliance frameworks, and implementing innovative financial solutions to better serve cannabis-related businesses (CRBs).
Before her tenure at Credit Union 1, Nicole Perry held leadership roles at The Dart Bank, where she played an integral role in growing its national cannabis and hemp program. Her expertise in financial regulations, risk assessment, and tailored banking services enabled The Dart Bank to establish itself as a leader in cannabis banking. Perry also worked at Fifth Third Bank, where she mentored financial center managers and contributed to significant revenue growth, showcasing her ability to drive performance and strategic business development.
Academic Credentials and Industry Certifications
Nicole Perry is not only a seasoned banking professional but also a well-credentialed leader in the industry. She holds multiple industry certifications that highlight her deep expertise in cannabis banking and regulatory compliance. These include:
- Certified Cannabis Banking Professional (CCBP)
- Cannabis Banking Professional Advanced Certification (CBPA)
- PBC Level I Cannabis Banking Certificate
- Certified Treasury Manager (CTM)
In addition to her professional certifications, Nicole Perry has a strong academic background, holding a Master of Science in Human Resources Management from Central Michigan University and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration Management from Davenport University. Her educational foundation in business administration and human resources equips her with the skills needed to lead teams, foster innovation, and drive business success.
Addressing the Evolving Cannabis Banking Landscape
The cannabis industry in the United States is experiencing rapid growth, with an increasing number of states legalizing medical and recreational cannabis use. However, despite the industry’s expansion, cannabis-related businesses continue to face significant banking challenges due to federal banking restrictions and regulatory complexities. Traditional financial institutions often remain hesitant to provide services to CRBs, creating an urgent need for specialized banking solutions tailored to the cannabis industry’s unique financial landscape.
Perry’s appointment comes at a crucial time when financial institutions must adapt to an evolving regulatory environment while maintaining compliance with federal and state laws. With her deep understanding of cannabis banking regulations and risk management strategies, Perry is well-positioned to guide CannaFirst Financial in addressing these challenges and offering CRBs secure, compliant, and transparent banking services.
“I am excited to join CannaFirst Financial at such a pivotal time for the cannabis banking industry,” said Nicole Perry. “As the market continues to evolve, financial institutions must stay ahead of regulatory changes while providing innovative, compliant, and reliable solutions. I look forward to leading our national sales efforts and strengthening relationships with businesses that need specialized financial services.”
Enhancing Cannabis Banking Solutions
Under Perry’s leadership, CannaFirst Financial aims to expand its suite of financial solutions for CRBs, ensuring they have access to banking services that support growth, compliance, and operational efficiency. Some of the key areas of focus include:
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that CannaFirst Financial’s banking solutions align with state and federal regulations to provide CRBs with secure and compliant financial services.
- Innovative Payment Solutions: Developing and implementing advanced payment processing solutions that cater to the cash-heavy nature of the cannabis industry.
- Risk Management and Fraud Prevention: Strengthening security protocols to mitigate financial risks associated with cannabis banking.
- Industry Partnerships: Collaborating with cannabis industry stakeholders, trade associations, and regulatory bodies to promote financial inclusion for CRBs.
- Client-Centered Banking Services: Offering customized banking solutions tailored to the specific needs of dispensaries, cultivators, manufacturers, and ancillary cannabis businesses.
The Future of Cannabis Banking
With increasing acceptance of cannabis legalization across the U.S., the demand for banking services within the industry is expected to grow exponentially. Financial institutions that embrace innovation and regulatory adaptability will be at the forefront of this transformation. CannaFirst Financial, with Perry’s expertise and leadership, is committed to driving the evolution of cannabis banking by providing CRBs with the financial tools and support necessary to thrive in a competitive market.
Nicole Perry’s appointment as Director of National Sales at CannaFirst Financial represents a strategic move toward strengthening the company’s position in the cannabis banking industry. With her extensive background in financial services, deep expertise in cannabis banking regulations, and passion for driving business growth, Perry is set to make a significant impact on the company’s expansion efforts.
CannaFirst Financial remains dedicated to bridging the gap between financial institutions and cannabis-related businesses by offering secure, compliant, and tailored banking solutions. As the industry continues to evolve, Perry’s leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the future of cannabis banking and reinforcing CannaFirst Financial’s reputation as a trusted partner for CRBs across the nation.
With a growing emphasis on regulatory compliance, innovative payment solutions, and enhanced risk management, CannaFirst Financial is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the cannabis banking landscape. As Nicole Perry takes on her new role, the company looks forward to a future of growth, innovation, and continued success in providing top-tier financial services to the cannabis industry.
