Week-long fully residential program environment facilitates deep level collaboration, learning and engagement

The IFPA Produce Executive Program is returning to Auckland this August (9^th-14^th), with registrations now open for current and emerging leaders throughout the fresh produce and floral supply chain in New Zealand.

Participants have the opportunity to elevate leadership skills, industry knowledge, creative thinking, and personal resilience while building strong professional relationships across the value chain.

The week-long fully residential program environment facilitates deep level collaboration, learning and engagement, as participants develop actionable strategies to support business growth, engage with thought leaders, explore global trends, and develop insights into domestic and export markets.

The program delivery is supported by senior leaders in the NZ produce industry along with international experts.

Speakers include Program Director and Management Consultant Tristan Kitchener, Emeritus Professor of Food Marketing Professor David Hughes, Horticulture NZ Chief Executive Kate Scott, Woolworths Fruit and Vegetables General Manager Ryan McMullen, Director of AI Lab at KPMG Australia Lachlan Hardisty, Managing Director of NZ Hothouse Simon Watson, CEO of AS Wilcox & Sons Akash Varma, IFPA Strategy & Engagement Advisor Verena Cunningham, JapanIQ Consultant Paul Kraft, and Forward Insight and Strategy Global Consumer Insights Director Carlo Magni.

Testimonials from past participants:

More than 800 participants have attended the program in Australia and New Zealand over 20+ years, rating it an average 4.7/5 for overall satisfaction.

“Outstanding access to world-class global speakers, and excellent networking opportunities across the supply chain. The combination of wellness, industry, and leadership content, and the open, candid insights shared by NZ CEOs was really valuable.”

“I left with a deeper understanding of how things are done, why they are and what they are, learnings about negotiation skills, presenting to influence and how to explain the value proposition. Some speakers had a unique style of presenting, incorporating physical and experiential activities into the learning which was highly engaging and memorable. We (in fresh produce) run at a fast pace and it’s important to manage yourself for productivity and sustainability – and it’s something we can all apply immediately.”

“For company leaders, it’s a great opportunity to refresh their approach to the dynamics of working with people and teams. The AI module was also enlightening, and it has already inspired us to implement some technology in our help-desk setting. Investing in the program is investing in yourself and your associated business and will have some semblance of payback for years.”

“The close connection with everyone for all 5 days was fantastic – eating, living and working together. It meant the program was fully immersive and drove focus. I also really enjoyed the constant theme of ‘progress not perfection’ across all presentations and activities.”

“Great exposure to new activities and exploration of being my best, both physically and mentally. The program encouraged me to look outside of my silo and comfort zone and was a great chance to practice my relationship building skills (which have improved throughout the week).”

Key Information

Dates: 9-14 August 2026

Venue: Rydges Formosa Golf Resort, Auckland

Program fee: $9,295 for IFPA Members, $10,295 for non-members (includes accommodation and all meals for the week).

Early bird discount: Get $500 off the program fee (or 10% for 3, 12.5% for 4 or 15% for 5) if you register by the 1st of May 2026.

To check out the program brochure or to register please visit:

https://streamwiselearning.com.au/programs/ifpa-produce-executive-program-nz