The year long program from the NCA will provide young professionals with new opportunities for success within the confectionary industry. 

The National Confectioners Association (NCA) has chosen five young professionals as the inaugural class of NCA’s Future Leadership Program.

The 2016 class includes one of the confectionery industry’s youngest CEOs, several people who have grown-up in the industry watching their family businesses flourish and a young confectionery broker.

“Aligned with NCA’s vision of advancing the confectionery industry, the Future Leadership Program was developed to help build knowledge and leadership skills while raising the visibility of talented young professionals,” said NCA President and CEO John Downs. “Congratulations to the inaugural class, I look forward to interacting with each of them and tracking their future success.”

The one-year program will last for the duration of the 2016 calendar year and includes complimentary registration to NCA’s State of the Industry Conference (Feb. 28-March 2 in Miami), the Sweets & Snacks Expo (May 24-26) and the Washington Forum (Sept. 28-29 in Washington D.C.). Program participants will also be paired with a highly regarded leader within the confectionery industry who will serve as a formal mentor.

The 2016 Future Leadership Program class is:

Sarah Atkinson
Director of Marketing
Atkinson Candy Co.

Elizabeth Clair
National Confectionery Sales Manager
Barry Callebaut

Byard Ebling
Client Development Manager/Business Manager
Shankman & Associates

Amy Guittard
Director of Marketing
Guittard Chocolate Co.

Chris Jenco
CEO
Jenco Brothers’ Candy

The Future Leadership program 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 2017 class will be open in August.