IFPA introduces next leadership program cohort

The International Fresh Produce Association has revealed the incoming class for its leadership program during the graduation of the outgoing fellows of Class 27.

The program, now in its 28th year, is a year-long leadership program where participants develop essential leadership and business skills through a series of customized trips, according to a news release. These trips are packed with face-to-face meetings and hands-on training with industry experts and educators taking place at several of IFPA’s signature and industry events. 

“I’m proud of our graduates and the hard work they put into their experience this year,” Nikki Wootten, IFPA program lead, said in the release. “The leadership program is such a unique experience for professionals in the industry to not only have an immersive program that builds on skills over the course of a year, but also welcomes the participants into an incredible alumni group that they can connect with and lean into for the rest of their careers.”

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The competitive program has only 12 spots available to high-potential, mid-level produce and floral industry professionals, according to the release. Leaders seek to develop four fundamental skills and qualities, which include leadership development, business relationships, government and public affairs, and media and communications. The program is sponsored by Corteva Agriscience.

The incoming IFPA 2023 leadership program (Class 28) includes:

• Maria Fernanda Abilgaard, regulatory affairs manager, AgroFresh.

• Himanshu Arora, head of APAC South, Zespri International Ltd.

• Erendira Lara Borja, co-manufacture director, NatureSweet.

• Eric Frasse, vice president of sales, I Love Produce LLC.

• Violeta Mendoza Gomez, director of food safety and quality, Caruso Inc.

• Brendan Haslam, senior category manager, Bolthouse Farms.

• Lucas Rosello Hinrichs, grower relations and business development manager, Alpine Fresh Inc.

• Hollie Johnson, commercial director, Offshoot Brands.

• Beth Keeton, CEO, Elephant House PR.

• Matt Klare, sales, The Horton Fruit Co.

• Greg Palmer, procurement director for produce, Loblaw Cos. Ltd.

• Liam Slavin regional business manager for Northeast, Bard Valley Medjool Date Growers.