Produce Executive Program turns over a new leaf

For Immediate Release:
7 October 2014

– Produce Executive Program turns over a new leaf thanks to new strategic partnership –

Produce Marketing Association Australia-New Zealand and Institute of Food and Grocery management announce 'PMA A-NZ Produce Executive Program'

The highly-regarded Produce Executive Program is set to turn over a new leaf in 2015 thanks to a new strategic partnership between the course's developers, the Institute of Food and Grocery Management (IFGM), and the Produce Marketing Association Australia - New Zealand (PMA A-NZ).

Long regarded as a cornerstone of talent development in the fresh produce industries across Australia and New Zealand, the partnership would see the Produce Executive Program (PEP) take on a new name to become the PMA A-NZ Produce Executive Program.

Michael Worthington, CEO of PMA A-NZ, says that the partnership between PMA A-NZ and the IFGM was a natural progression in a relationship spanning more than a decade, with both organisations sharing a strong commitment to attracting, developing and retaining talented employees for the fresh produce industry.

“We are delighted to be strengthening our relationship with IFGM and we think that this collaboration is good for the Australasian fresh produce industry and good for our members. We are absolutely committed to developing people in our great industry and this highly-rated course does just that”, he added.

The 2015 program will build on the PEP's unique blend of skill development, industry learning and networking led by world class teachers alongside senior industry leaders.

Dr Melinda Muth, Managing Director of the IFGM, says the partnership is an opportunity to extend the benefits of the program to more industry members than ever before.

“We are looking forward to working more closely with PMA A-NZ to reach a wider range of industry participants and help them with their talent development and retention plans.”

Specifically tailored to all segments of the fruit, vegetable, flower, nut and nursery industries in Australia and New Zealand, Worthington says the PEP is ideal for executives seeking professional development.

"As a business school style executive program, it is a perfect fit for middle to senior managers looking to take the next step in their career, or develop their skills and abilities as a leader in their business" he said.

"For previous participants in the PMA A-NZ Emerging Leaders Program, it also provides a logical next step to build on their learnings and experience," Worthington added.

With the IFGM and PMA A-NZ collaborating on ideas for course materials, access to guest speakers and finding new talent development opportunities, Dr Muth says that the partnership will help the PEP to stay on top of industry issues and remain relevant across the supply chain.

“We will be in direct contact with industry leaders through PMA A-NZ so that we can understand their issues and incorporate the program content more quickly.”

While an earlybird rate will apply to course bookings, the partnership is of particular value to PMA A-NZ members, with each member company set to receive an additional AUD $1000 discount for each participant they send on the course.

The program brochure will be released in early November. With high demand experienced each year, places are expected to sell out fast. For more information and to book online, visit www.pma-anz.com/PEP

-ENDS-

About PMA Australia-New Zealand (PMA A-NZ)

Founded in 2009, PMA Australia-New Zealand is the first international affiliate of Produce Marketing Association (PMA), the leading global fresh produce and floral industries’ trade association. PMA A-NZ’s membership comprises fruit, vegetable and floral companies across the value chain in Australia and New Zealand; from seed companies and growers through to wholesalers and retailers. For more information, visit www.pma-anz.com.

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