Talent
Leadership Program
Join a year-long immersive leadership journey to develop essential leadership and business skills tailored to the produce & floral industries.
Applications open May 1, 2025.
Join a Prestigious Group of Industry Leaders
The IFPA Leadership Program, a prestigious legacy program from United Fresh now in its 29th 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
Application will be open May 1 - June 20, 2025
Application Requirements
To apply, you will need to complete application form. You will need the following to complete your application:
- An updated resume
- Three professional references
- Only one may be from within your current organization
- Written consent from your current supervisor
All application information, including references submissions and supervisors’ approval, must be completed by close of business on June 20, 2025. Applications will NOT be accepted after the deadline, regardless of reason.
The review and selection process will take place over the summer. Final decisions will be communicated in September 2025.
Is this program right for you?
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.
What can you gain?
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.
Tentative Travel Dates for the 2025–26 Program
Participants should plan to be available for in-person sessions on the following dates:
- Late February / Early March 2026
- June 7–11, 2026
- August 2026
- October 12–17, 2026
Please note: Travel dates are subject to change. Confirmed details will be shared upon acceptance into the program.
Congrats to Class 29 the 2024-25 selectees!
Thank you to our Sponsor:
Questions?
