Registration for the inaugural United Fresh Produce Executive Development Program opened this week. Presented through the United Foundation in partnership with Cornell University, this is the first of-its-kind program designed for produce executives. The program will take place March 11-16, 2007 at the Statler Hotel & Executive Conference Center on the Cornell Campus in Ithaca, NY. During the program, sessions and presentations will be augmented with guest speakers, case study exploration, working groups, and discussion. Some of the key topics to be covered include: today's food retailing climate; competitive strategy development; branding strategies for the produce industry; negotiation & conflict resolution; global food industry trends and strategies; survival guide to finance in strategic planning, and more.

The concept for this program was developed by the members of the United Fresh Business Development Council, chaired by Mike Kemp, director of perishables, Save-A-Lot. "The Council recognized there was an opportunity in our industry to provide professional development training for top-level leaders," said Kemp. "This course will bring a tremendous amount of value for anyone involved in the produce supply chain."

The Produce Executive Development Program is designed for mid-to senior-level produce executives, including Presidents, CEOs, Sr. Vice Presidents, Vice Presidents, Directors and others with management experience. Tuition for the 5 day program includes all classroom sessions and materials, tours, lunches, group dinners, receptions, completion certificate, group photo, and 5 nights lodging at The Statler Hotel. Tuition for United Fresh members before January 15, 2007 is $4995 and after January 15 is $5500; non-member rates are $7995 and $8500 respectively. Space is limited; the maximum class size for the program is 40 participants, to help ensure a dynamic, yet intimate learning environment for participants. Click here for more information or to register or contact Beth Berman, United Fresh education manager, at 202-303-3405.