() () has named cannabis industry veteran Sameer Kumar as an independent director.

Sameer was the former president and chief operating officer (COO) of VIOLA Brands, a lifestyle-based cannabis management services organization (MSO), which was founded by former NBA player Al Harrington.

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Sameer expanded the brand into five markets, drove operational and sales efficiencies, which led to a doubling of production, a double-digit increase in sales and an expansion of margins, propelling VIOLA to become one of the largest live resin concentrate brands in Colorado and Oregon, by market share, highlighted Australis.

"AUSA continues to take decisive action to position the company for growth," said director Harry DeMott in a statement, adding that Sameer brought valuable external skills and perspectives.

"On behalf of AUSA and the other directors, I welcome Sameer and look forward to working with him as the company breaks with its recent past, focuses on the US cannabis market, and moves along the path to value creation," he said.

"Far from entrenching or self-aggrandizing itself, the board will continue to add independent US cannabis experts. The refreshed board is well-positioned to represent the interests of all shareholders moving forward."

In a separate statement on Friday, Australis Capital said it would be relying on an exemption provided in BC Instrument 51-516 to delay the filing of its executive compensation disclosure.

AUSA expects to include its executive compensation disclosure in its AGM information circular to be sent to shareholders and filed on SEDAR later this year, it added.

Contact Giles at giles@proactiveinvestors.com