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Future Leaders Programme 2026

Developing the Next Generation of Industry Leaders

IN-PERSON and ONLINE
18 FEBRUARY - 23 JUNE 2026
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The Future Leaders Programme equips tomorrow’s leaders with the insight, confidence, and network to take on the challenges of the C-suite. It helps them build the connections and capabilities that will support their growth throughout their careers.

As part of the CGF’s commitment to leadership excellence, the 2026 edition has been reshaped based on feedback from members, stakeholders, and past participants.

Supported by Bain & Company and Egon Zehnder, the updated programme offers a more engaging and practical experience. Participants will gain the tools, perspective, and peer support needed to steer their organisations through today’s complex business landscape.

Blending professional growth, peer learning, and cross-industry collaboration, the programme offers a hands-on journey creating a truly transformative experience for tomorrow’s global leaders.

See What Our 2025 Participants Have to Say
    A truly structured program designed to "open minds" through the inspiring visions of many CEOs and the network of participants from all over the globe.
    Isidoro Colluto
    Customer Team Director
    Barilla
    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
    This program’s focus on the rapid pace of technology and shifting consumer behavior helped me re-imagine my role.
    Sheila Muniz Ebanks
    Head of Large Store for the North America Operating Unit
    The Coca-Cola Company
    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
    VP Merchandising Etos
    Ahold Delhaize
    Bain and Company experts provided in-depth insights into retail trends, while Egon Zehnder's modules introduced us to C-level leadership perspectives. The organizing teams ensured that every session was impactful.
    Hanife Civan Bekler
    Retail Operations Planning & Development Director
    Migros Ticaret
    The digital sessions provided a well-balanced mix of inspiring leadership coaching—delivered by top leaders—and in-depth research on the future of retail.
    René Kester
    Managing Director
    Dutch Flower Group
    It’s clear that the path forward lies in innovation and cross-industry partnerships. The event provided not only invaluable knowledge but also a powerful network for driving positive change.
    Thung Chia Chien
    General Manager
    Colgate Palmolive Indonesia
    A standout aspect was the diverse mix of global participants from retailers and suppliers, fostering cross-industry collaboration and a holistic view of the consumer goods ecosystem.
    Mark Keller
    VP Sales, Canada
    S.C. JOHNSON & SON, INC.

What's New In 2026

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 (2 hours each)

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

  • The Future of Consumer Products – 17 March
  • High-Performing Teams – 14 April
  • Future Consumer Economies – 19 May

 

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

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.

Nominate Your Future Leaders

Member companies are invited to nominate up to five high-potential leaders (including at least two women, to promote gender diversity).

Please send CVs or LinkedIn profiles to Anne Malbrancq by the end of November 2025. 

Confirmations of selected participants will be shared approximately 10 days after receiving the application. 

Programme Fee: €5,500 (excl. VAT)* per participant.

Your organisation’s participation will help develop the next generation of leaders shaping the future of our industry.

For more information, please contact Anne Malbrancq.

 

*10% French VAT applies to the registration fee for the Paris event and subsequent virtual sessions. The June pre-Summit in-person session is offered free of charge

Any Questions?

More details on the programme are available upon request. Please get in touch with Anne Malbrancq with any questions.

Where Next

Global Summit
Sustainable Retail Summit
Event Calendar
The Consumer Goods Forum Official Logo
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