Sicignano steps down

Henry Sicignano III has resigned as president and CEO of 22nd Century Group for personal reasons. He will continue to serve the company on a consultancy basis.

Michael Zercher, 22nd Century’s chief operating officer, will oversee the company’s operations as the board of directors looks for a new president and CEO.

“The board is thankful for Henry’s years of service and leadership, and we wish him and his family the very best,” said James W. Cornell, director and chairman of the board of 22nd Century Group. “He has made tremendous contributions to our company, and we are grateful that we can retain his deep expertise and knowledge on a consulting basis for the next several years as the company moves into what we believe is an exciting phase of growth.”

“It has been an enormous privilege to lead 22nd Century through a period of profound change. I am proud to have worked with such a talented team that has made important and growing contributions to improving public health,” said Sicignano. “I look forward to continuing to support the company’s efforts, in a consultative capacity, as 22nd Century works to realize the promise that our very low nicotine technology represents.”

22nd Century recently submitted a premarket tobacco application and modified risk tobacco product application with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration seeking authorization to commercialize its proprietary very low nicotine cigarettes. It also strives to become a leader in hemp/cannabis.