Chief Operations and Strategy Officer | Cannabis Industry Leader | Visionary Business Strategist
Sergio Barraza-Ingstrom is an accomplished business leader with extensive experience in the cannabis industry, specializing in operations, strategy, and business expansion. With a proven track record of success in both domestic and international markets, Sergio is a driving force in the strategic growth and operational excellence of cannabis businesses across the United States and beyond. Fluent in multiple languages and highly skilled in navigating complex regulatory frameworks, Sergio’s leadership combines a deep understanding of financial management, market dynamics, and operational efficiency.
Key Achievements
- Executive Leadership: As Chief Operations and Strategy Officer at Med Leaf LLC and BRACS Family Farms, Sergio spearheaded multi-state expansions, ensuring financial stability and operational excellence in emerging markets like New York, Virginia, Missouri, and Minnesota.
- International Expertise: Successfully managed cannabis operations in Portugal, Colombia, Denmark, and Germany, including projects valued at over $1 billion USD.
- Consulting Excellence: Played a pivotal role in securing over $1.5 million in consulting revenue and managing cannabis license applications in 15+ U.S. states and international markets.
- Strategic Fundraising: Raised capital for multiple funds worth $100 million each, focusing on ancillary, medical, and adult-use cannabis sectors.
Sergio Barraza-Ingström is a seasoned operations leader and strategist with a deep understanding of the cannabis industry’s intricacies, from navigating regulatory landscapes to driving expansion into emerging markets. His leadership philosophy is rooted in fostering transparency, fairness, and collaboration, ensuring that the teams he leads thrive while maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards.
With over a decade of experience, Sergio has successfully guided businesses through growth trajectories in highly regulated markets across the United States, including New Jersey, New York, Maryland, and Illinois, as well as international ventures in Europe, Latin America, and Africa. As Chief Operations and Strategy Officer for both Med Leaf LLC and BRACS Family Farms, he has been instrumental in leading these organizations through strategic expansions into new territories, such as Missouri and Minnesota, and introducing high-quality cannabis products to wider audiences.
Sergio’s unique ability to analyze and interpret complex financial frameworks allows him to make sound decisions that drive sustainable growth. He is also deeply committed to social equity, ensuring that every expansion effort maintains the values of inclusivity and fairness. Whether it’s engaging with government officials, securing regulatory compliance, or building relationships with investors and community leaders, Sergio’s approach is always strategic and people-centric.
His diverse experience includes founding operations for Portugal’s first licensed medical cannabis grower, valued at $1 billion, and overseeing large-scale projects, from greenhouse cultivation to GMP certification. Sergio’s track record also includes securing cannabis licenses in over 15 U.S. states and internationally, raising hundreds of millions in funds, and supporting operational strategies for organizations at the forefront of the cannabis industry.
An academic high achiever, Sergio holds a Master’s in Philosophy from Cambridge University, a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Literature from Columbia University, and has studied extensively in Japan and Europe. His multilingual proficiency (English, Spanish, Japanese, French, Italian, and Portuguese) further reflects his global outlook and cultural adaptability.
When he’s not charting new courses for business growth, Sergio is passionate about advocating for progressive policies in the cannabis industry, mentoring emerging leaders, and promoting sustainable practices that benefit both businesses and the communities they serve.
With a proven ability to turn challenges into opportunities, Sergio Barraza-Ingström continues to shape the future of the cannabis industry while leaving a legacy of innovation, equity, and excellence.
Why Sergio?
Sergio’s blend of strategic vision, hands-on experience, and dedication to fairness and social equity uniquely positions him as a leader ready to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the evolving cannabis landscape. Whether driving revenue growth, guiding market expansion, or championing sustainable practices, Sergio is committed to delivering results that align with organizational goals and industry standards.
Contact
For business inquiries or to learn more about how Sergio can help your organization grow, please reach out via email: sergio@collateralbase.com or phone: (213) 298-6565.