Nicole Elliott

Director

California Department of Cannabis Control

Director, California Department of Cannabis Control

Appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom in July 2021 and confirmed by the California Senate in April 2022, Nicole Elliott currently serves as the Director of the California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), leading one of the most complex and dynamic regulatory environments in the country.

Nicole brings over a decade of public service and policy experience to this role, with a proven track record of shaping cannabis regulation at both state and local levels. Prior to joining DCC, she served as Governor Newsom’s Senior Advisor on Cannabis, helping guide California's statewide cannabis strategy. Before that, she was the inaugural Director of the Office of Cannabis for the City and County of San Francisco, where she oversaw the creation and early implementation of the city’s regulatory framework during the critical transition to adult-use commercial sales.

Nicole’s public service career spans multiple administrations and leadership roles. Under San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee, she directed Legislative and Government Affairs and served as the Mayor’s Liaison to the Board of Supervisors and city commissions. Her earlier experience includes serving in then-Mayor Gavin Newsom’s administration as a policy lead in the Budget Office and as Deputy Legislative Liaison.

Throughout her career, Nicole has been known for her collaborative approach, deep policy insight, and commitment to fairness and innovation in government.