The International Fresh Produce Association's Produce & Floral Leadership Path offers progressive leadership development programs, from entry-level staff to next-gen leaders to the C-suite. Four of nearly a dozen programs opened applications in May. Others open later this year or are on-demand online.
"The industry relies on IFPA's Produce & Floral Leadership Path as a one-stop shop that builds skills and networks to expand employees' contributions," said Doug Bohr, IFPA chief education and programs officer.
"We benefited greatly from our participation in IFPA Events and Leadership programs, and we look to IFPA to provide industry-specific professional development to employees at all career levels," said Kathleen Quandee, vice president of human resources, Pacific Coast Fresh Company. "Over the past few years, we have had employees attend the Women's Fresh Perspectives conference, the Washington conference, and the Emerging Leaders and Executive Leadership Development Programs. All participants have returned to our company with new insights and an expanded industry network."
Offered throughout the year, the programs combine online and in-person options to suit company needs.
Benefits of The Produce & Floral Leadership Path:
- Advances organizations by developing strong leaders
- Enhances employee contributions
- Showcases a company's commitment to its employees and their career paths,
- Rewards star performers with additional opportunities to grow
- Builds staff loyalty by investing in them, and
- Enriching a culture of ongoing learning that drives business success
Offered throughout the year, the programs combine online and in-person options to suit company needs. Applications for four programs opened on May 13.
- Management Fundamentals: This online, three-part program prepares early- and mid-career staff to lead from their current seat and is conducted in collaboration with the University of Arizona.
- Emerging Leaders Program: Offered in person, this weeklong program prepares high-potential staffers to embrace responsibility and handle leadership challenges. This 40-seat program, Dec. 1-5, 2024, in Tucson, Arizona builds leadership skills and peer relationships.
- Leadership Program: This year-long, immersive leadership journey for mid-level staffers develops essential leadership and business skills tailored to the produce and floral industries and is open to 12 participants.
- Executive Leadership Development Program: Guided by faculty at Cornell University, this executive, week-long intensive course serves as a cornerstone for nurturing leadership excellence in the global fresh produce industry.
Additional leadership development from IFPA:
- Women's Fresh Perspectives Conference
- Career Pathways Virtual Certificate Program
- Career Pathways Summer Internship Program
- Food Safety Immersion Program
- Volunteer Leadership Opportunities
- Mentorship Programs including IFPA's Women's Portfolio and Career Pathways Program
For more information:
Ashley Sempowski
International Fresh Produce Association
[email protected]
https://www.freshproduce.com/