PMA hosts new women's conference

PMA Foundation for Industry Talent will debut its Women’s Fresh Perspectives (WFP) Conference on April 21-23 at the FireSky Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Ariz. Offered in partnership with Simmons School of Management, the new conference has been customized to develop women’s leadership potential throughout the global produce industry, and is the only industry-specific development program for women.

PMA said in a recent press release that women only represent 15 percent of senior management roles in all industries, despite studies consistently showing how more women in leadership measurably fuel a company’s success. Because of this, PMA is hosting the conference to help businesses leverage this competitive advantage. Welcoming industry newcomers and veterans, the program will provide competency-based leadership training backed by research, and a PMA-member needs assessment of leadership development for women in produce. Consultant Julie Krivanek, president of Krivanek Consulting, facilitated the process, which included industry research, input from attendees of the WFP leadership breakfast at Fresh Summit and networking reception at Foodservice Conference, review of existing programs inside and outside the fresh produce industry, and research on how women influence business success.

Participants will hone cross-functional skills, and network and learn from peers and business leaders. Speakers familiar with produce industry issues will help attendees learn how to:
•    Achieve business results through strategic thinking skills
•    Amplify leadership strengths to motivate and inspire
•    Negotiate and communicate effectively to reach goals
•    Gain insights and actionable tools to enhance their personal brand
•    Lead high performing teams
•    Manage work-life balance

The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference is part of the PMA Foundation “career continuum,” which offers students and industry members a spectrum of programs and networking events to support every stage of a produce career. Men interested in honing skills related to effectively manage women and/or who believe in the benefits of diversity throughout an organization — especially in leadership positions — are also invited to attend.

For more information or to register, visit pmafoundation.com.