Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Bryan Zises is a seasoned professional with diverse experience in the cannabis, real estate, and communications industries. He currently serves as the Chair of the Board of Directors at Abbia Specialty Cocoa, the Spark'd Cannabis at Spark'd Dispensary, and a Coffee Fetcher at Dispensary33, in addition to his role as the Principal at Zises Communications, Inc. Zises' expertise spans strategic communications, operations management, and business development, with a strong focus on the emerging cannabis sector.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Chair of the Board of Directors, Abbia Specialty Cocoa (2016-01-01 to Present)

• Provides strategic oversight and guidance to the executive team, ensuring the company's alignment with its mission and long-term goals.

• Leverages extensive industry knowledge and network to identify growth opportunities and drive revenue expansion.

• Actively contributes to the development and implementation of the company's sustainability initiatives and corporate social responsibility programs.

Spark'd Cannabis, Spark'd Dispensary (2023-01-01 to Present)

• Responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of the Spark'd Cannabis brand within the Spark'd Dispensary.

• Collaborates with the dispensary's leadership team to develop and execute innovative marketing campaigns, enhance customer experience, and drive brand awareness.

• Actively participates in industry advocacy efforts, ensuring Spark'd Cannabis' alignment with evolving regulatory frameworks and best practices.

Coffee Fetcher, Dispensary33 (2015-12-01 to Present)

• Provides exceptional customer service and maintains a positive rapport with clients, contributing to the dispensary's overall customer satisfaction.

• Assists with inventory management, product displays, and various administrative tasks to support the smooth operation of the dispensary.

• Stays up-to-date with industry trends, product knowledge, and regulatory changes to provide accurate information and recommendations to customers.

Principal, Zises Communications, Inc. (2005-01-01 to Present)

• Oversees the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the communications agency, serving a diverse client base across various industries.

• Develops and implements comprehensive communications strategies, leveraging traditional and digital channels to drive client visibility and brand awareness.

• Leads a team of skilled professionals in the execution of high-impact public relations, content marketing, and crisis management initiatives.

Career Progression

Prior to his current roles, Zises held various leadership positions in the public and private sectors, including:

• Strategic Communications at Turner Group (2016-02-01 to 2017-01-01)

• Acting Executive Director / Assistant Executive Director / Chief Operating Officer at Illinois Housing Development Authority (2011-05-01 to 2016-01-01)

• Founder at Local Government Regional Center of Illinois (LGRCI) (2010-01-01 to 2012-01-01)

• Director of Communications at Chicago Housing Authority (2006-12-01 to 2008-06-01)

• Director of Public Affairs at Illinois Housing Development Authority (2003-09-01 to 2006-12-01)

• Owner / Producer at BzzZ Films, Inc. (1997-01-01 to 2006-01-01)

Throughout his career, Zises has demonstrated a strong track record of driving organizational growth, improving operational efficiency, and delivering measurable results for his clients and employers.

Academic Background

Zises holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he graduated with honors.

Areas of Expertise

• Strategic communications and public relations

• Operational management and business development

• Regulatory compliance and industry advocacy

• Stakeholder engagement and relationship management

• Creative problem-solving and innovative thinking

Professional Impact

As a seasoned professional, Zises has made significant contributions to the industries he has served. Notable achievements include:

• Spearheading the development and implementation of award-winning communications campaigns that elevated the profiles of his clients and their respective organizations.

• Driving operational efficiencies and cost savings at the Illinois Housing Development Authority, resulting in improved service delivery to underserved communities.

• Founding the Local Government Regional Center of Illinois, which provided critical resources and support to local government agencies across the state.

• Serving as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the emerging cannabis industry, contributing to the shaping of regulatory frameworks and best practices.