Melissa Sturgess holds a BSc and an MBA and has more than 25 years of experience as a director of UK and Australian Stock Exchange quoted companies, in the roles of Chair, CEO and non-executive director. She has also chaired listed company audit committees and served on remuneration and corporate governance committees. Her expertise is in bringing together people, projects and capital in complex jurisdictions and regulatory environments.
Melissa’s interest in the cannabis sector commenced with a trip to Israel in 2017 to review the medicinal cannabis research in that country. She subsequently co-founded UK based, AQSE and OTCQB quoted Ananda Developments Plc. She is a key driver of the strategy to bring Ananda’s proprietary CBD formulations through the FDA, EMA and MHRA regulatory pathways in order to bring cannabinoid medicines to everyone who needs them.
Melissa was the recipient of the Executive of the Year at the Malta Cannabiz Awards in November 2019, is a past committee member of the Cannabis Industry Council and previous Co-Chair of its Research Working Group.
Attend Cannabis Europa London 2026
General Release
VIP Experience
BoC Awards
Working with Prohibition Partners for Cannabis Europa has been an absolute pleasure. Their dedication, exceptional professionalism, and collaborative spirit have made a meaningful difference, and we sincerely value their support.
We were truly honoured to sponsor the VIP Lounge and be part of an event that continues to set the standard for meaningful dialogue and progress in the medical cannabis industry. We left feeling excited and optimistic about the future.
