2027 FUTURE LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Application Evaluation Rubric

Use AI as a tool. Keep your voice your own.

The Future Leadership Program supports the responsible use of AI as a tool for learning and productivity. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all submitted work has been personally and carefully reviewed and reflects their own thinking and voice.

Category	Weight	3 Points Exceeds expectations	2 Points Meets expectations	1 Point Minimal evidence
Resume Professional Development, Leadership & Experience Leadership experience and increasing responsibility Professional development and continued learning Industry, community, or volunteer involvement	20% of total score	Demonstrates exceptional leadership, career progression, and commitment to professional growth. Resume reflects meaningful industry involvement, community engagement, continued learning, and increasing responsibility.	Demonstrates relevant leadership experience and professional development with evidence of growth and engagement.	Limited evidence of leadership, professional growth, or involvement beyond day-to-day responsibilities.
Short Response #1 Why do you want to be an NCA Future Leader? Motivation for applying Commitment to the confectionery industry Authenticity and self-awareness	30% of total score	Clear, compelling, and authentic response demonstrating a strong commitment to the confectionery industry and the goals of the program. Motivation is defined, and interest in the program is strong. Well-written and supported by specific examples.	Clearly communicates interest in the program with some supporting examples, though reasoning lacks depth or specificity.	Motivation is unclear, generic, or focused primarily on personal advancement with little connection to the industry or FLP.
Short Response #2 What will the confectionery industry look like in five years, and how will you contribute? Industry knowledge and perspective Vision for the future Thoughtful, realistic personal contribution	30% of total score	Presents a thoughtful vision for the future of the industry and clearly articulates how the applicant will contribute. Demonstrates a strong understanding of industry opportunities and challenges.	Demonstrates a general understanding of the industry’s future and identifies a reasonable personal contribution.	Shows limited understanding of the industry or provides an unclear vision or contribution.
Recommendations Professional & Character Strength and specificity of endorsements Examples of leadership, integrity, and growth Readiness for FLP	15% of total score	Both recommendations provide strong, specific examples of leadership, integrity, professional growth, and readiness to participate in FLP.	Recommendations are positive and supportive but provide limited specificity or examples.	Recommendations are generic, hesitant, or provide little evidence supporting the applicant’s readiness.
Future Leader Assessment Leadership potential Collaborative mindset and stewardship Overall fit for the FLP cohort	5% of total score	Demonstrates exceptional leadership potential, collaboration, curiosity, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving the confectionery industry. Reviewer would enthusiastically recommend the applicant for the cohort.	Demonstrates solid leadership potential and would likely contribute positively to the cohort and the broader industry.	Does not clearly demonstrate the leadership potential, collaborative mindset, or commitment to stewardship expected of a Future Leader.