Black Buffalo co-founder and president Mark Hanson was honored by Goldman Sachs as one of the Most Exceptional Entrepreneurs of 2025 at its Builders and Innovators Summit. The recognition follows Black Buffalo’s national retail expansion, growth of its “Herd Rewards” loyalty program, and continued investment in R&D and compliance serving adult nicotine consumers. “This award is a reflection of the Black Buffalo team’s tireless dedication to excellence, foundational commitment to compliance, and relentless pursuit to deliver innovative products to our adult consumers,” Hanson said. The Summit, now in its 14th year, brings together founders and CEOs of hypergrowth companies to share insights and advance business leadership.
Tag: Black Buffalo
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Black Buffalo Tabs Booth as Chief Legal Officer
Black Buffalo Inc. announced the appointment of Kellsi Booth as its Chief Legal Officer. Booth joins the Black Buffalo executive team with over a decade of experience in heavily regulated industries, with a focus on nicotine and tobacco. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs at Turning Point Brands, where she oversaw regulatory strategy and compliance for a portfolio of established consumer brands, including Zig-Zag and Stoker’s. Prior to that, she held a series of progressive roles at Juul Labs, Inc., where she drove initiatives in regulatory, quality, and policy matters.
“Kellsi brings an unmatched depth of experience in regulatory affairs, legal strategy, and quality oversight,” said Matthew Hanson, Chief Growth Officer of Black Buffalo. “Her leadership will be pivotal as we continue our responsible, rapid growth within leading retail chains across the United States.”
Booth has built a career navigating complex regulatory frameworks and advocating for responsible innovation within the industry. She is actively involved in several industry trade associations, including the Coalition of Manufacturers of Smoking Alternatives, and serves as one of the co-founders and board members of OWNiT (Organization of Women in Nicotine & Tobacco) — an initiative dedicated to empowering women across the nicotine and tobacco space.
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Black Buffalo Adds Pro Slapper as Brand Ambassador
Black Buffalo announced the addition of Power Slap standout Branden “The Butcher” Bordeaux to its growing roster of brand ambassadors. The alternative tobacco company’s roster of ambassadors includes UFC legends, pro athletes, and military heroes “who believe in hard work and resilience.”
“A butcher, family man, and rising force in the world of Power Slap, Bordeaux embodies the resilience, grit, and work ethic at the core of the Black Buffalo brand,” the company said in its press release. “From running a mobile slaughter business in West Michigan to delivering heavy-handed performances in one of the fastest-growing combat sports, Branden brings a blue-collar mentality and unwavering purpose to everything he does.”
As part of the partnership, Bordeaux will collaborate with the brand on exclusive content, community engagement, and bringing more visibility to Black Buffalo’s tobacco-alternative offerings.
“I was introduced to Black Buffalo because I am a longtime dipper,” Bordeaux said. “Amazing company, with amazing products, run by even better people, and that’s what means the most to me. I am very honored to be part of the Black Buffalo family and to have such a great team of individuals behind me.”