An Interview with Kiven, Artrix’s KA Manager
Welcome to “Behind the Innovation,” our exciting new LinkedIn series shining a spotlight on the innovators behind Artrix.
Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Kiven Z.– not just a dynamic Key Account Manager, but also one of our top sales stars with a unique personal flair. With his talent for building lasting relationships, Kiven is leading the charge in driving growth and innovation within the vaping industry. Join us as we explore Kiven’s journey, his impactful work, and his inspiring vision for the future of vaping.
Q：Hi Kiven, would you mind sharing your path to the cannabis vaping industry? What made you choose this area as a professional field?
Before I joined the company now known as Artrix, I had limited sales background in the cannabis space. However, having studied and worked in Canada within the last eight years, I have witnessed the benefits of legal marijuana. I knew that Artrix has meant for me an excellent opportunity to continue the development of my career. As I learned more about this evolving market and the innovations in cannabis vaping, especially with the legalization in many U.S. states and the recent shift from Schedule I to III, my confidence and passion only grew stronger.
Q：How would you describe your personal style and how does it influence your work mode?
Describing myself in a few words is a bit tricky (laughs). But if I had to sum it up, I’d say I’m naturally curious and always eager to explore new things. This curiosity isn’t just a trait; it’s woven into the fabric of how I tackle my work. It’s what keeps me constantly pushing boundaries, seeking out innovative solutions that can really make a difference for our company and our clients. Embracing this curiosity not only keeps me passionate about what I do but also keeps me sharp and ready to adapt in our ever-changing industry.
Kiven
Q：What excites you most about being part of the Artrix family?
Artrix is a young, imaginative, and passionate team that’s always learning and growing. I might be one of the older folks here (laughs), but being with this team makes me feel like I’m back in my 20s.
Q：As one of the top sales professionals at Artrix, how would you describe your approach to sales?
When I first got into this industry, I was a complete newbie. But Artrix provided excellent training, covering everything from cannabinoids to market trends and legal restrictions. This knowledge helps me understand products, competition, and customer needs comprehensively. I aim to be a consultative salesperson, helping our clients grow alongside us.
Q: Could you share an example where your consultative sales approach significantly impacted a client’s success?
Absolutely! Let me share a memorable collaboration with Wake N Vape. Victoria Williams , the founder, is an incredible entrepreneur, and working with her was a true pleasure. From assisting with product selection to diving into CMF design and packaging, we covered it all. Together, we crafted a holistic strategy that set her brand up for success. Seeing her brand thrive in the market was incredibly rewarding, and it’s moments like these that remind me why I love being a consultative salesperson—it’s all about building meaningful partnerships and growing together.
Wake N Vape
Q: Looking back on your journey at Artrix, which project holds the most unforgettable memories for you?
For me, that would be the launch of the ‘Artrix Social Equity Program (ASEP)’ in September 2023. It was a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing 100,000 high-quality 510 cartridges to Social Equity Business Owners. Partnering with 40 Tons Brand , a prominent Social Equity brand, was incredibly rewarding. Together, we showcased our customized 510 Cartridge Drillor at MJBiz Con, which was a thrilling experience. This project not only symbolized our commitment to promoting equity in the cannabis industry but also strengthened our partnership with 40 Tons, making it truly unforgettable one for me.
Q:How do you view the current state of the cannabis vaping industry, and what’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced here?
The industry is evolving rapidly, especially with Canada’s full legalization in 2018 and the U.S. currently moving cannabis to Schedule III. It’s a time of both risks and opportunities. The biggest challenge is the product homogenization and lack of innovation among manufacturers. Artrix is here to change that and set new trends.
Q:Artrix has launched numerous products; which one do you favor the most and why?
It’s hard to choose just one! My personal favorites so far are our latest disposables, SK8 and Retro. They’ve got this sleek and stylish design that really clicks with Gen Z consumers. SK8, inspired by skateboards, has this unique vibe that just screams Gen Z coolness. Retro, on the other hand, is all about creativity and affordability.
Retro has some standout features: it has a preheat function that minimizes the risk of clogging, three adjustable voltage settings for compatibility with different oils like live resin, liquid diamond, or distillate, and a transparent outer shell that showcases the premium oil quality and offers lots of customization space for creative CMF designs.
I mean, who wouldn’t love them? We’re really tapping into the potential of the Gen Z market with these blinkers, and I’m confident they’re going to be a hit!
Artrix SK8 & Retro
Q:Drawing on your industry experience, if you were to design a product, what kind of innovative solution would you like to create for the cannabis community?
Based on my market observations, postless vapes have great potential, especially in the rapidly growing Gen Z market. Gen Z values style and individuality, so a postless vape with a larger oil tank and a clear view of the concentrates would really resonate with them. The design idea of “no post, no boundary” perfectly captures their spirit. In fact, Artrix is launching a new postless series with both disposable and 510 cart soon. These products align perfectly with my vision, and I think you’ll be wowed! Stay tuned!
Q:What are your personal and professional objectives for this year, and how do you plan to achieve them?
My main professional goal this year is to establish a partnership with a major MSO client. I’ll leverage my product and industry knowledge and get support from our strategy consulting team to provide the best advice to potential clients. Personally, I aim to build my reputation and influence by sharing original content on LinkedIn and engaging with more clients and end-customers on Instagram and Reddit. By consistently connecting with the community and showcasing our innovative solutions, I’m confident I can make it happen.
Q:Can you share any exciting upcoming projects at Artrix that you are involved with?
Absolutely! Based on market trends and customer feedback, products with LED displays are definitely the future. Artrix has already launched some innovative disposables with screens, like Clicko and Bubble, which have generated a lot of buzz on our socials! I’ve shared my ideas with our product team, and we’re gearing up to release more screen-equipped products soon. Stay tuned again!
Artrix Clicko & Bubble
Q:Looking forward, how do you envision yourself and Artrix evolving to tackle future challenges and opportunities?
Looking ahead, I see myself taking on a more strategic role, guiding the team through the rapidly changing industry landscape. Artrix, as a young brand, has faced many challenges since its launch, but we’ve never given up, and we’re getting stronger! I envision Artrix leading the market with innovative products and becoming a key player in the global cannabis vaping industry. Just like the slogan of MJBizCon, “Dare to Grow,” everyone at Artrix dares to dream and dares to win! Together, we’ll tackle future challenges, keep dreaming big, and keep winning bigger!