WASHINGTON – Five young professionals have been selected for NCA’s 2017 Future Leadership Program. The 2017 class includes an emerging entrepreneur, several people who work for storied manufacturers within the industry, and a rising confectionery broker.
Launched last year with support from the NCSA Candy Hall of Fame, the one-year program matches emerging industry leaders with mentors and also includes complimentary registration to NCA’s State of the Industry Conference (March 6-8 in Miami), the Sweets & Snacks Expo (May 23-25), NCA’s Summer Board & Leadership Strategy Meeting (July 9-11 in Colorado Springs), the Washington Forum (September 12-13 in Washington DC) and the Candy Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony (October 13-15 in Tampa). Program participants will also be paired with a highly regarded leader within the confectionery industry who will serve as a formal mentor.
“The Future Leadership Program aligns perfectly with NCA’s mission to advance the industry. The five young professionals selected will build knowledge and leadership skills while raising their visibility within the confectionery community,” said John Downs, NCA president and CEO. “Congratulations to the 2017 Future Leadership Program class, a diverse group of emerging leaders that will achieve great things for our industry.”
The 2017 Future Leadership Program class is:
Becca Mandru
Carlin Group
Kate McAleer
Bixby & Co.
Ross Rutherford
Star Brands North America
Caitlin Servian
Just Born, Inc.
Anthony Trani
Topps Confections
The Future Leadership program, managed by NCA’s Young Professionals Network Committee, is designed to provide support, education, access and opportunity to individuals within the confectionery industry who wish to advance into the ranks of leadership. The application process for the 2018 class will open in May. If you are interested in applying for the program, or learning more about how to get involved as either a young professional or as a mentor, contact [email protected].
About the National Confectioners Association (NCA)
The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization that advances, protects and promotes chocolate, candy, gum and mints, and the companies that make these special treats. As the leading association for the $35 billion U.S. confectionery industry, NCA educates the public to help ensure that it understands and appreciates the unique role that chocolate and candy can play in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Confections are produced in all 50 states, creating jobs for approximately 55,000 workers in more than 1,000 manufacturing facilities across the country. More than 400,000 jobs in agriculture, retail, transportation and other industries rely in part on the sale of confections for their livelihood. For every one job that is created by confectionery companies, another seven are supported in related industries. Learn more about the “Power of Sweet” at CandyUSA.com, or follow NCA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
