Leadership Program

Join a Prestigious Group of Industry Leaders

The IFPA Leadership Program, a prestigious legacy program from United Fresh now in its 28th year, is the only ongoing leadership program for the fresh produce and floral industries. During the year-long leadership journey, participants develop essential leadership and business skills through a series of customized trips packed with face-to-face meetings, hands-on training with top industry experts and educators, interactive experiences with influential leaders and more.

Each year, 12 industry professionals are selected to participate in the program which is developed around four fundamental goals:

• Leadership development
• Business relationships
• Government and public affairs
• Media and public communications

Applications

Applications will open for Class 29 on May 13, 2024. 

Application deadline is June 28, 2024. Selected participants will be notified in early September. 

All application information, including references submissions and supervisors’ approval, must be completed by close of business on June 28, 2024. Applications will NOT be accepted after the deadline, regardless of reason.  

Who Should Attend

High-potential, mid-level produce and/or floral industry professionals with backgrounds that position themselves as future leaders in the produce industry. Applicants must be employed by an International Fresh Produce Association member company in good standing.

Why Attend

Become a well-rounded leader and trusted advocate for the fresh produce and floral industries. Participants will develop career-long connections and deepen their understanding of the industry and how to lead and influence through connections, advocacy, and communications.

More than 300 produce industry members, including today’s industry leaders, have graduated from this exclusive program since its launch in 1995, thanks to the generous support of founding sponsor Corteva Agriscience.

There is no cost to participate in the Leadership Program and all regular expenses are covered by the program.

Megan Nash, Director, Education & Talent, IFPA, speaks with Austin Kirtley, Founding Partner, KESI Management who is a current Leadership Program fellow. Listen in as Austin discusses his experiences and the value of participating in this professional development program specific to our industry.