Invest in Your Future
If you’re a young professional looking to make your mark in the confectionery industry, the NCA’s Future Leadership Program (FLP) is here to help. Our goal is to cultivate a diverse group of future leaders who are ready to take on the industry’s challenges and drive it forward.
Each year, NCA and a panel of industry experts select up to eight deserving young professionals for the Future Leadership Program, an exclusive opportunity for networking and professional development. For that year, Future Leaders receive recognition among their colleagues, a professional industry mentor, and complimentary registration to all NCA’s signature events.
For more information on how Future Leaders are selected, view the Future Leadership Program evaluation criteria. If you have questions, please contact [email protected].
Program Benefits
- Collaboration with classmates and industry leaders on projects addressing important NCA or industry initiatives.
- Formal mentorship by an industry leader, facilitated by NCA.
- Networking opportunities with rising stars from the Young Professionals Network (YPN).
- Opportunities to collaborate with established thought leaders from the confectionery industry and NCA community.
- Complimentary registration to NCA’s signature events, including the State of the Industry Conference, Sweets & Snacks Expo, NCA Leadership Summit, and Washington Forum.
- Complimentary registration to the Candy Hall of Fame weekend.
- Industry recognition, including but not limited to features on CandyUSA.com and in Candy & Snack TODAY magazine.
Eligibility Requirements
- Current employee of an NCA member company or qualified retail customer in a confections-related role (candy, chocolate, gum & mints).
- 40 years of age or younger as of January 1, 2025.
- At least five (5) cumulative years of professional experience as of January 1, 2025. Professional experience could include internships and positions held at a family company.
- At least three (3) years of cumulative experience working for a confectionery manufacturer, supplier or broker or in a related role at a retailer or distributor.
- Aspire to executive leadership within the confectionery industry.
- Demonstrate commitment and dedication to NCA and the confectionery industry.
- Employer support to participate if selected.
Program Policies
- A maximum of five (5) employees are permitted to apply from each NCA member company.
- Members of the selection committee are not permitted to provide letters of recommendation for Future Leader applicants.
- Only one candidate from a member company can be selected to any one Future Leadership Class.
2025 Class of Future Leaders
Charlotte Ashcraft
Manager, Packaging & Graphic Development, Just Born Quality Confections
Charlotte is the go-to for all things packaging and graphics at Just Born Quality Confections, where her career began 10 years ago as an intern. A lifelong local of Bethlehem, PA, she grew up with Just Born’s treats all around—especially enjoying samples of HOT TAMALES® at the zoo where her mom worked.
With master’s and bachelor’s degrees in Packaging Science & Value Chain (sustainability is her jam), Charlotte loves creating packaging that looks great, works better, and is kinder to the planet. She’s also big on inspiring kids to explore STEM through hands-on science events.
When Charlotte’s not innovating at work, you’ll find her cooking up something delicious, sailing, or traveling with her husband and their two dogs.
Industry Mentor: Debra Harris, Vice President of Marketing, CSN | Shankman & Associates, Inc.
Emily Goetze
Manager, Inventory of Palletized Materials and Finished Goods, Goetze’s Candy Company, Inc.
Emily is a proud sixth-generation member of Goetze’s Candy Co., supporting her family’s 130-year legacy. She first fell in love with the business around age six, accompanying her grandfather to work to assist with labelling boxes earning a penny a piece, and working every summer in production throughout her teens and early twenties. Today, she’s just as passionate about candy, managing inventory and ensuring everything runs like clockwork.
With a business management degree with an emphasis in globalization from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Emily’s experience spans production, operations, and even Forbes Five-Star-level customer service. She’s always learning and recently attended UW-Madison’s Candy Basics Course to expand her expertise.
When she’s not in the warehouse or office, Emily’s probably traveling—she’s visited 43 states and nine countries so far, and she’s just getting started!
Industry Mentor: Jason Glade, President & CEO, Taffy Town, Inc.
Hope Hebenstreit
Director, Strategy and Business Development, creative werks
Hope brings creativity and strategy to life at creative werks, where she partners with the biggest names in confections to develop standout seasonal and innovative packaging. Known for her client-first approach, she’s laser focused on helping brands hit their goals and grow.
Her career journey includes stints at Farmer’s Fridge and S’well Bottle, where she helped shape trends in food and sustainability. A Colorado College graduate, Hope’s leadership skills earned her multiple accolades, including the Henri “Skip” Meis Emerging Leader Award.
Outside work, she can be found soaking up the outdoors with her husband and two kids or enjoying her other passions, design and dance.
Industry Mentor: Emily Edmondson, Executive Vice President of Sales, Hilco Sweets LLC
Dan Mattera
Director of Sales – Grocery, CSN | HWY Partners
Dan is all about food—he’s been in the grocery and confections world for years, starting at BJ’s Wholesale Club before joining HWY Partners, where he now leads a grocery team representing top brands. His experience on both sides of the desk gives him a unique edge in understanding what customers and consumers want.
In just five years, Dan has worked with over 50 confectionery brands across every category, from premium chocolate to better-for-you treats. He’s a people person who loves talking shop and connecting with others.
Dan is currently taking on his most exciting role yet: becoming a dad. When he’s not working, you can find him watching sports, playing games, or enjoying good conversations.
Industry Mentor: Joe Perfetti, CEO, CSN | Access Strategies
Mike Pedi
Director, Retail Design, Mars Wrigley
Mike leads the Transaction Zone Team at Mars Wrigley, transforming the retail checkout experience. With more than 15 years of expertise in category leadership, he’s passionate about creating shopper-friendly innovations that benefit retailers and brands alike.
Before joining Mars Wrigley, Mike started his career in consulting, where he mastered the art of combining business strategy with shopper insights. Now, he’s all about driving growth and making shopping smoother.
A movie lover and dedicated dad, Mike balances family life with his passion for retail innovation—and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
Industry Mentor: Elise Fennig, Chief of Staff & Senior Vice President of Operations, National Confectioners Association
Endri Shtylla
Marketing Director, Ferrero NA
Endri grew up a Ferrero fanboy in Europe, loving Nutella, Kinder, and Ferrero Rocher, so it’s no surprise he turned his passion into a career. Now the marketing director for Tic Tac in the U.S., he’s been part of the Ferrero family since 2014, starting at their European HQ in Luxembourg before heading stateside.
Endri holds degrees from Bocconi University and a dual MBA from CEMS MIM, which have fueled his success. He’s passionate about mentoring others and stays active in programs like NextUp and Nova 111.
When he’s not working, Endri’s exploring the world with his wife, Karina. Whether it’s a road trip to Michigan or sipping wine in the Loire Valley, he’s always up for an adventure.
Industry Mentor: Raul Francisco, Managing Partner, CSN | HWY Partners – Metro NY
Bryan Young
Manager, International Strategy and Insights, The Hershey Company
Bryan is all about thinking big. At Hershey, he works on building strategies that drive growth, focusing on everything from brand management to consumer insights. Over the past decade, Bryan has gained a wealth of experience across sales, category management, demand forecasting and marketing, making him a go-to expert for turning insights into action.
Bryan thrives on challenges, especially when finding fresh ways to connect with consumers. Whether launching new products or crafting impactful marketing campaigns, he’s always thinking ahead to keep Hershey at the forefront of the industry.
Outside work, Bryan loves spending time with his wife and two kids. Weekends often involve outdoor adventures like camping, disc golf, exploring new places, and discovering hidden gems.
Industry Mentor: Bill Martin, President, Spangler Candy Company
Chao Zhou
Corporate Director, Regulatory Compliance, Blommer Chocolate Company
Chao is the compliance and quality guru at Blommer Chocolate, ensuring their products meet the highest standards of safety and innovation. With a master’s in Food Safety from Illinois Tech and a patent for an AI-driven food safety system, he’s setting the bar high in the industry.
Chao’s expertise extends to publishing articles and mentoring others, and he’s currently adding “wine taster” to his resume as he preps for his Wine & Spirit Education Trust certification.
When he’s not geeking out over food safety, Chao enjoys life in downtown Chicago with his wife and their dog, Cheese, where they’re always on the hunt for their next great meal.
Industry Mentor: Steve Gohde, Partner, The Allan Sullivan Co.
