FRESH produce executives may benefit from a depth of shared knowledge being offered through a specially designed program.
The International Fresh Produce Association Australia New Zealand (IFPA) Produce Executive Program will take place in from May 19 to 24 at Waurn Ponds Estate, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria.
Streamwise Learning's Institute of Food and Grocery Management developed the leadership program which has assisted fresh produce executives to hone their skills and collaborate with industry heavyweights since 2002.
The IFPA Produce Executive Program brings together current and next-generation leaders and high-profile influencers from across the supply chain of the fruit, vegetable, flower, nut and nursery industries for six days of intensive learning.
This year's program holds the theme "Using fresh ideas to accelerate careers".
IFPA members will pay $8610 (plus GST) while non members pay $9610 (plus GST). The registration deadline is April 22.
Hort Innovation is offering six scholarships to the 2024 program for vegetable levy paying businesses.
The scholarships cover the full registration fee. Applications close on March 15.
IFPA managing director A-NZ Ben Hoodless said the program explored global industry trends and innovation and was an opportunity for business insiders, executives, and experts to share knowledge.
"It's a unique combination of personal and professional development put together with a passion for relevant and experiential learning including talks with industry leaders and experts," Mr Hoodless said.
Facilitators from the program's Faculty will deliver keynote speeches.
Presenters include:
- David Hughes, Emeritus Professor of Food Marketing: Trends, customers and markets;
- Lisa Smith, partner Minds at Work: A framework for problem solving and innovation;
- Gavin Freeman, director, Business Olympian Consulting: Leadership, motivation and decision making;
- Lex Dwyer, facilitator, Corporate Fitness Service: Collaborative advantage and personal resilience.
Other guest speakers include:
- Perfection Fresh Australia chief executive officer Michael Simonetta;
- Woolworths head of strategic sourcing - fruit and veg Warwick Hope;
- Sundrop Farms chief executive officer Steve Marafiote;
- Aldi Stores group director Matthew Atley;
- Horticulture Innovation Australia chair Julie Bird;
- Coles Supermarkets general manager - fresh produce Charlotte Gilbert;
- IFPA managing director A-NZ Ben Hoodless;
- Entente Agency founder Kara Hurry;
- James Tyler co-founder and chief executive officer James Hutchinson,
- ROC Partners partner and agricultural lead Frank Barillaro.
- James Tyler partner Simon Manetti.
Two 2023 attendees said the event was a professionally rewarding experience which delivered an immediate return on investment.
An attendee at the 2023, Samson's Fruit and Vegetable Supply group general manager Mark Garratt received a Hort Innovation scholarship to attend.
He said the experience of hearing respected industry achievers describe their journey and outline their keys to success, was second to none.
"I was engaged from the second I was there. There were so many key areas addressed and a broad range of knowledge from high-calibre speakers conveyed," Mr Garratt said.
"I took 58 pages of notes and have reflected on my notes ever since. It taught me to look at every part of my business daily and see what learnings I can apply to help grow and become a more effective leader."
Fellow 2023 participant, Costa national sales and marketing manager - avocado and bananas, Matthew Hives said it was an eye-opening experience which broadened the mind to the possibilities of success.
"Being around like-minded people in similar roles from the same industry presented opportunities to collaborate," Mr Hives said.
"A key takeaway was, when coming up with new ideas, to go beyond the given framework - to start with the unattainable and go from there.
"We've always attended the program and we always will. Anyone considering it should take the leap and put themselves in the same room as the industry's key people."
E-mail to register or enquire: apike@streamwise.com.au
