The Southeast Produce Council is embarking on the fourth year of the SEPC Next Generation Leadership Academy (NGLA).
Designed for the next generation of produce-industry leaders, this immersive year-long program blends conscious-leadership methodologies with practical skill-building. Participants sharpen their leadership competencies, expand their capacity to navigate complexity, and cultivate a growth-oriented mindset essential for the evolving demands of the industry. With a tailored mix of in-person gatherings and virtual learning, the Academy delivers timely, relevant development that prepares each participant for the leadership roles ahead. The program encompasses the buy side and the sell side of the industry.
"The success of our first three classes has exceeded every expectation. We've seen leaders deepen their self-awareness, strengthen their confidence, and cultivate lasting connections that elevate the entire produce supply chain," said SEPC past chairman Raina Nelson of Westfalia Fruit USA. "As we open nominations for Class 4, now is the time to empower the next wave of talent to step forward."
© Southeast Produce Council
Nelson says participants in the program have deepened their self-awareness, strengthened their confidence, and cultivated lasting connections that elevate the produce supply chain.
"Participating in the SEPC Next Generation Leadership Academy challenged me to grow both personally and professionally and strengthened the way I show up as a leader. It broadened my understanding of our industry and connected me with a trusted group of peers I can lean on, learn from, and grow with — that kind of support stays with you," said Courtney Carlton, Sunkist Growers.
"I applaud the SEPC for investing in the future leaders with the NGLA program, establishing a clear path of growth for these amazing leaders in the produce industry," said Shawn Perry, Albertsons Companies.
Nominations are now open and will close for this class on January 12th at 5:00 pm EST.
Applicants should have organizational level support to participate. The incoming class will be announced during the Keynote Brunch at Southern Exposure 2026 and will graduate at Southern Exposure 2027.
Applicant eligibility requirements:
- Emerging leader in produce, mid-level manager or above
- Employed in the produce industry for at least four years
- Member in "Good Standing" of the SEPC*
- Must possess a vision for leadership, a strong drive for industry contribution, and a compelling two-minute video as to why they believe they would be a good candidate
*To be in "Good Standing", a member must actively participate in the SEPC by their attendance, contributions, or both and must be included in SEPC's membership roll.
For more information:
Anna Burch
Southeast Produce Council
Tel: (478) 982-4411
(877) 720-SEPC
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.seproducecouncil.com
