Tom Forrest is one of the world’s most respected experts in the cannabis industry and a global leader in medicinal cannabis. As the first-ever Churchill Fellow for cannabis agronomy, Tom has authored a landmark white paper on behalf of the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust, on cannabis botany, global cultivation practices and emerging market trends.

With formal qualifications in agri-business, horticulture and protected cropping - and specialist training in hydroponics and plant botany - Tom combines deep scientific knowledge with practical, commercial experience. 

As one of the founders of Puro New Zealand, Tom now serves as chief development officer, guiding cultivation strategy, business development and product innovation. He also leads the company’s strategic partnerships and supports the board in risk mitigation and long-term planning. 

Tom also works as commercial sales manager and technical support for worldwide agricultural supplier Stealth Garden Wholesale and runs a small farm operation in the Yarra Valley, Australia, undertaking hemp research, wine production with Tillie J Wines, organic gardening, enthusiastic ruminant production and hobby poultering. 

Tom is a sought-after speaker and advisor in the global cannabis sector, with extensive networks across breeding, cultivation, manufacturing and distribution. 

Named Advocate of the Year at the 2021 Australian Cannabis Awards, Tom has also helped secure industry accolades for Puro, including the Environmental, Social and Governance Award and Industry Collaboration Award at the Cannabiz Awards. His reputation for leadership, innovation and sustainability has positioned Puro and Stealth Garden Wholesale as leaders in the Asia-Pacific agricultural/cannabis landscape.