IFMA The Food Away from Home Association's Next Gen Execs program is a one-year opportunity exclusive to our member companies that supports emerging leaders within the foodservice industry. This program offers high-performing individuals the chance to expand their leadership skills, network with industry peers and gain recognized credentials through a nomination-based program, all while contributing to the broader food-away-from-home community.
As a Next Gen Execs participant, your nominee will have exclusive access to a range of leadership and professional development opportunities, including:
- Connecting with Industry Leaders: Build meaningful relationships with peers, mentors and key decision-makers across the foodservice industry]
- Collaborating on Industry Solutions: Work alongside other emerging leaders and industry professionals to tackle real-world challenges facing the foodservice sector
- Speaking Opportunities: Represent the program on Association panels, deliver introductions at major events and showcase expertise to industry peers
- Mentorship: Give back by mentoring Association scholarship recipients, helping shape the next generation of foodservice professionals
Eligibility
Nominations and acceptance into IFMA The Food Away from Home Association Next Gen Execs program are eligible for the following member types:
- Manufacturer Members: Tier II & Tier III
- Service Provider Members: Tier III
- Supply Chain Members: Tier II
- Foodservice Leadership Council Operator Members
Nominee Qualifications
Nominations should highlight individuals who demonstrate:
- High performance in their current role
- Strong potential for future leadership
- Currently leadership role OR on a leadership track
- Responsibility for managing at least one individual
Submission Guidelines
- Nominations must be submitted by the nominee's direct supervisor
- External partner nominations will not be accepted
- Each company may nominate up to two (2) individuals per cohort
Note: Due to growing interest in the program and our commitment to maintaining a high-impact, intimate cohort experience, not all nominees will be selected for participation.
Participation Expectations
If accepted into the 2027 Next Gen Execs cohort, participants are expected to attend the following in-person IFMA The Food Away from Home Association events:
- Presidents Conference 2026
- Presidents Conference 2027
Additionally, participants will:
- Attend two (2) quarterly virtual meetings
- Small group discussions
- Collaborative group projects
- Contribute to and present a final project at Presidents Conference 2027
- Actively engage in Next Gen Execs initiatives that could include:
- COEX 2027
- Gold & Silver Plate Awards
Professional Development & Badging
- A professional badging system is in place to recognize participants’ learning and leadership development throughout the program.
- To earn digital badges and receive program recognition, participants must complete all assigned work and meet participation requirements.