Providing professional development resources, including mentorship opportunities and complimentary registration to NCA’s signature events, the program is seen as a stepping stone for young professionals aspiring to leadership roles in the confectionery industry.
“A successful future for the chocolate and candy industry depends on the development of our next generation of leaders,” said John Downs, NCA president & CEO.
“We seek and value their input and perspectives on projects across the organization – most recently, “Thrive in 2025,” the strategic plan that will guide the association’s priorities over the next five years.”
Candy Hall of Fame
Established in 2016, the Future Leadership Program is entering its sixth year as a joint initiative led by NCA’s YPN Committee and supported by the Candy Hall of Fame.
The program connects the Future Leadership class with formal mentors in the confectionery industry, with selection based on the career goals of the Future Leader, and gives the Future Leader complimentary access to NCA’s signature events, including the State of the Industry Conference, the Sweets & Snacks Expo and the Washington Forum.
“The Future Leadership Program has been such an enriching, rewarding and incredibly fun experience and has afforded me many amazing opportunities to build strong connections with peers and leaders across the industry,” Lisa Eustic, member of the 2020 Future Leadership class and senior marketing director at The Promotion In Motion Companies, said.
“The relationships forged will carry forward well beyond this year, and because of this program, I have access to many great people who are only a phone call away and are more than willing to lend a helping hand.”
The deadline to apply is October 10, 2020. Employees of NCA member companies and qualified retail customers who are 40 years old and younger are eligible to apply. More information about the Future Leadership Program and the application can be found on NCA’s website.
