The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) Board of Trustees announced the selection of Graham Rigby as the new president and CEO of AHPA. The decision came with longtime leader Michael McGuffin’s full participation and blessing, the associate said, as he participated in the executive search process prior to his passing.

With more than two decades of experience in the natural products industry, Rigby has expertise in strategic leadership, organizational management, and advocacy. He has also served for over a decade on AHPA’s Board of Trustees,  including as Board Chair and, most recently, Chair of the Finance & Governance Committee.

“We are honored to welcome Graham as AHPA’s next president and CEO,” said Kristina Tucker, chair of the AHPA Board of Trustees. “His deep industry knowledge, passion for herbal products, and strong leadership experience make him the right person to continue building on Michael’s legacy and guiding AHPA into the future.”

Rigby has held executive leadership roles at Care/of (Bayer AG), Organic India, and New Chapter (Procter & Gamble), where he led innovation, regulatory strategy, quality compliance, and business development programs. Most recently, he served as head of innovation and partner success at IngredientAI, a generative AI startup focused on the nutraceutical industry.

“I am honored to step into this role and serve AHPA’s members,” said Rigby. “Michael McGuffin’s leadership shaped this organization and the industry in profound ways, and I am committed to carrying forward his vision: supporting our members, advocating for appropriate regulatory policies that promote the responsible and sustainable commerce of herbs and herbal products, and ensuring the continued growth and integrity of the natural products community.”

AHPA said it would share further details about Rigby’s transition in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Jane Wilson will continue to serve as interim executive director.