Logo of the Future Leaders Programme CGF

Equipping future leaders for c-suite excellence

The Future Leaders Programme helps future leaders build the connections and capabilities for lifelong career success. In partnership with Bain & Company and Egon Zehnder, the 2026 edition delivers a practical, engaging curriculum that equips participants with the tools and peer support to steer organisations through today’s complex business landscape. By blending professional growth with cross-industry collaboration, this hands-on journey creates a truly transformative experience for tomorrow’s global executives.

Anke Ehlers / Managing Director Corporate Responsibility International, Aldi South Group

I thoroughly enjoyed taking this course. What I liked most was the combination of consumer insights and leadership skills. The fireside chats with CEOs were inspiring and practical.

Anke Ehlers

Managing Director Corporate Responsibility International, Aldi South Group

Sheila Muniz Ebanks / Head of Large Store for the North America Operating Unit, The Coca-Cola Company

This program’s focus on the rapid pace of technology and shifting consumer behaviour helped me re-imagine my role.

Sheila Muniz Ebanks

Head of Large Store for the North America Operating Unit, The Coca-Cola Company

Lynne Van Gessel / CEO Etos, Ahold Delhaize

I especially valued the outside-in perspective, connecting market trends with what it means for us as leaders and organizations. The mix of inspiration, reflection, and a community of like-minded peers made it both energizing and meaningful.

Lynne Van Gessel

CEO Etos, Ahold Delhaize

What's new in 2026

  • Two in-person modules

    Two in-person modules

    Paris (18–19 February 2026) and Vienna (22–23 June 2026, ahead of the Global Summit, including the official Store Tour on 23 June 2026).

    These sessions strengthen peer connections and foster deeper learning through in-person collaboration — moving beyond the limits of virtual engagement.

  • Three virtual CEO sessions

    Three virtual CEO sessions

    The 2 hours virtual CEO sessions remain a programme highlight, offering direct access to senior industry leaders.

    High-Performing Teams – 17 March
    Future of Retail – 14 April
    Future Consumer Economies – 19 May

  • Leadership exchange

    Leadership exchange

    New for 2026, participants will visit Bel Group headquarters for an exclusive discussion with Cécile Béliot (CEO) and members of Bel’s leadership team — an opportunity to see leadership in action and gain insight into how top executives are shaping their organisations’ future.

  • Enhanced interaction

    Enhanced interaction

    This edition will involved more face-to-face engagement and a focus on stronger cohort community building.

    Participants will have the opportunity work on a five-hour, in-person strategic case study for applied learning and coaching.

Why it matters

Participants will gain:

  • Actionable tools to drive growth and culture transformation.
  • Broader exposure to the global strategic challenges shaping the consumer goods sector.
  • A lasting peer network across CGF member companies.

This new approach offers the right balance of engagement, and impact, meeting the evolving expectations of participants, members, and partners.

Any questions?