Collaborate With Industry Peers And Re-Live The Campus Life At NAMA’s EDP Program - October 19-23

(CHICAGO) September 25, 2014 – Participants in NAMA’s Executive Development Program this fall will play an integral role in the strategic planning and re-vamping of a full-line vending operation through an interactive case study, according to Joann DeNardis, NAMA’s Director of Education/Certification.

“The case study is a key component of EDP, and gives participants valuable real-world experience in what it takes to transform a company into a strong and profitable organization,” DeNardis said.

“This exercise is team-focused, allowing attendees to collaborate and brainstorm with fellow industry leaders on developing strategies to successfully revive the company. The work done on this study will grow and enhance participants’ skills for immediate application back at their own organization, making them a more valuable asset to their team,” DeNardis continued.

During the case study, each student will be placed in a small group and each group will be assigned a particular area of business, such as accounting, technology or human resources. The teams will develop a plan for success based on their respective business areas and present their ideas at the end of the session.

Participants will also create a customized Personal Action Plan documenting new ideas and strategies for immediate application back at work.

“I feel that no matter how much you know about the vending industry, there are always ways to improve your skills within a company,” said Jeff West, Jr., Vice President of West Dairy, and a 2012 EDP graduate.

“I learned many new things that I could apply directly to my business, and things about myself that I continue to improve upon. I felt like a different and better person when I left EDP, professionally and personally,” West added.

“Attendees will also get to re-live the college campus experience on a guided bus tour through the beautiful MSU campus,” DeNardis said. The tour, taking place Monday, October 20, will include a private tour of the legendary Spartan Stadium and will conclude at the university’s Brody Complex with dinner at one of the largest non-military dining facilities in the U.S. 

For more information and to register for EDP, click here. Accommodations are at the newly-renovated Candlewood Suites Hotel, conveniently connected to the Henry Center. Booking has been extended through September 26, 2014.

Founded in 1936, NAMA is the national association representing the $42 billion U.S. vending and refreshment services industry.  With more than 1800 member companies – including many of the world’s most recognized brands – NAMA provides advocacy, education and research for its membership.