FoodNZ Column: Growing FMCG Leaders: Building Capability & Talent

Developing future ready leaders is one of the most important responsibilities we share as an industry. In 2026, the New Zealand Food & Grocery Council (NZFGC) is continuing to invest in practical, accessible capability development that supports people at every stage of their FMCG careers. Through our Leaders Webinar Series, partnership with the Kaleidoscope programme, and supporting the FMCG Intern Programme, we’re strengthening the sector’s talent pipeline - from early career professionals to emerging leaders and those in senior roles.

These initiatives are shaped with invaluable guidance from our Talent & Diversity Working Group. This group of senior representatives from across the FMCG sector ensures our leadership programmes reflect the real needs of our workforce and remain aligned with the skills our industry will require in the years ahead. Their insights help keep our work grounded, forward-thinking, and closely connected to the realities our members face.

The NZFGC Leaders Webinar Series

I’m delighted that we have launched the NZFGC Leaders Webinar Series, designed to give FMCG professionals practical, applied leadership development that directly reflects the operating environment they work in every day. This series is complimentary for NZFGC members and is delivered in partnership with leadership coach Robin Davies, who brings deep expertise in leadership, inclusive culture, and personal development.

Running monthly from February to November, these sessions equip our people with the tools they need to lead confidently in a fast changing environment. Topics cover inclusive leadership, organisational change, preparing for regulatory shifts, and creating psychologically safe, high performing teams.

One thing we wanted to ensure is that these sessions are accessible to all. The online format enables regional manufacturers, small-medium sized businesses, and frontline leaders to participate alongside larger organisations - helping lift capability across the entire sector. If you or your teams would benefit from joining us, please reach out. We want as many people as possible to take advantage of this resource.

Supporting Emerging Leaders

The Kaleidoscope Forum continues to be a standout opportunity for emerging FMCG leaders. It’s a day designed to challenge, support, and energise the next generation of FMCG leaders from across the spectrum of FMCG roles. This continues to build momentum across our sector, with senior leaders facilitating tables to lead the day’s conversations.

The forum plays a crucial role in strengthening the succession pipeline across our industry. This year’s theme Take the Lead invites participants to embrace possibility and build clarity around their personal leadership identity, to step forward with confidence. Make sure to check out the details here %Kaleidoscope FMCG Future Leaders https://www.fmcgfutureleaders.co.nz/

Developing Future Talent

At the start of the talent pipeline, the FMCG Futures Intern Programme offers university students structured placements across commercial, operational, and technical disciplines. These internships, supported by Biz Advisor and Talent Solutions, introduce young people to the breadth and pace of FMCG and provide a powerful pathway into longterm careers within our industry. With full wraparound support and a dedicated external learning programme in place, employers are supported to take on an intern, or interns, for the summer months.

For companies, the programme offers a meaningful way to develop future talent while showcasing the innovation, scale, and complexity that defines our sector.