WASHINGTON, DC – Registration is now open for the seventh annual Produce Executive Development Program. Presented through the United Fresh Foundation’s Center for Leadership Excellence in partnership with the Cornell University Food Industry Management Program, the program will be held March 10-15, 2013, at the Statler Hotel & Executive Conference Center on the Cornell campus in Ithaca, N.Y.
The Produce Executive Development Program is an intense, five-day program for mid- to senior-level executives led by Cornell faculty and industry experts. The course focuses on issues critical to both personal development and the larger challenges and opportunities faced by today’s produce industry executives. Participants will take part in a unique learning experience characterized by cutting-edge theory, industry best practices and thought-provoking discussions about key business issues affecting the global produce industry.
“This program was a game-changing experience for me,” said 2012 program graduate Miguel Suarez, president of MAS Melons & Grapes, LLC. “Not only did it have a major impact on my business outlook, but the lessons also resonated in my personal life. This is not your average educational program – I highly recommend it to anyone who is ready to challenge themselves in a new way.”
This robust program agenda will include respected Cornell faculty, guest speakers, and industry experts. Some of the topics for the 2013 course include:
- Executive Leadership
- Today’s Food Retailing & Foodservice Climate
- Competitive Strategy
- Team Dynamics and Decision Making
- Financial Planning
- Work/Life Balance: The Power of Sleep
- Negotiation & Conflict Resolution
- Leading Through Change
- Strategies for Growth in Entrepreneurial Environments
- Supply Chain Stimulation
- Produce Industry Forecast for the Future
- Understanding Your Executive Leadership Style
“This program partners the experience of industry leaders with the insights of world class academics in an environment that fosters a valuable knowledge exchange,” said Victoria Backer, United Fresh senior vice president of member services, foundation. “It’s an unmatched opportunity for learning and development, which is vital for even for the most seasoned executives.”
In the interest of keeping class size both informative and intimate, enrollment is limited to 40 participants. Tuition for the program includes: five nights lodging, instruction, books, supplies, breakfasts, luncheons and several special dinners. For United Fresh members, the registration fee is $4,995 if booked prior to January 18, and $5,500 if booked after. For non-members, the registration fees are $7,995 and $8,500, respectively. More information on the program is available by clicking here or by contacting Shannon Young, United Fresh education manager at 202-303-3400, ext. 405 or syoung@unitedfresh.org.
Founded in 1998, the United Fresh Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization committed to meeting the public’s needs for an abundant supply of healthy, safe and affordable fresh fruits and vegetables. The Foundation is dedicated to increasing the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables to children as a critical step in combating childhood obesity and launching a lifetime of healthy choices. To assist industry members in meeting these goals, the Foundation offers educational programs, leadership development, public outreach, and industry training through four different Centers — Center for Leadership Excellence, Center for Nutrition and Health, Center for Food Safety and Quality, and Center for Global Produce Sustainability. For more information, visit www.unitedfresh.org or call 202-303-3400
Source: United Fresh Foundation
