Bridging the gap between equality and equity has been at the heart of Rashad Johnson’s professional and personal work for his entire life. Originally from Sacramento, for nearly a decade Johnson has worked in local and state politics and government to help level the playing field for Black and Brown communities. As Vice President for S360’s California practice, Johnson supports clients as they enter new markets and expand their impact. Blending his expertise in public affairs, government relations, community engagement, and communications, Johnson can build trusting relationships that help move client’s priorities and projects forward.

Prior to S360, Johnson was Senior Director of Public Policy at Eaze, California’s largest legal cannabis retailer. Here, he was closely involved in the development and launch of Eaze’s Momentum business accelerator and first-in-the-industry Social Equity Partners Program. Together, these programs fund, elevate, and expand BIPOC entrepreneurs in legal cannabis without taking equity in their businesses. In this role, Johnson also advocated across multiple states including Washington, Arizona and California on behalf of Eaze.

Previously, Johnson worked for Sacramento Mayor and businessman Kevin Johnson (no relation), where he supported local, state, and national campaigns to mobilize communities seeking better educational options for their children. In 2016, Johnson joined the office of Senator Steven Bradford (SD 35) where he was instrumental in writing SB 1294, the California Cannabis Equity Act. This, the first statewide cannabis equity law in the nation, set a new standard for states developing legal cannabis markets and made clear that policymakers must systematically address the War on Drugs.

Deeply committed to creating healthy, thriving, and welcoming communities, Johnson worked on behalf of multiple non-profits in California with a focus on education and youth empowerment. In these roles, he advanced community outreach, fundraising, and policy goals.

Johnson studied political science at Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. He loves to experience and explore all the marvels of California’s diverse landscapes with his wife and family and offers time as a community volunteer.