Leadership Development Program (LDP)

Job Description

Leadership Development Program Associate | Acosta

The Tone:
This is a full-time, salaried opportunity within Acosta Group’s Leadership Development Program. Acosta Group is preparing future leaders for pivotal cross-functional roles within the organization, focusing on the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry. This program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the business and industry, equipping associates with the skills, insights, and professional network needed to accelerate their careers upon graduation. The role is crucial for developing the next generation of strategic contributors who can address the company’s evolving needs.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career
• Type: Full-time
• Location: Travel Required

• Team: Cross-functional rotations
• Mission: Prepare for a pivotal cross-functional role by gaining a comprehensive understanding of the business and CPG industry.
• Tech Stack: Retail specific technology, syndicated scan data, Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint

What You’ll Actually Do
• Program Immersion: Complete an 18-month rotational Leadership Development Program, engaging across 5–6 organization subgroups including Retail, Foodservice, and Sales.
• Operational Execution: Gain practical experience in retail field execution, learning roles like Merchandiser and Business Manager, focusing on in-store selling and client relationships.
• Strategic Development: Immerse in the foodservice sector and headquarter sales, developing strategic selling skills and fostering relationships with brands, distributors, and operators.
• Data Analysis & Application: Act as a Corporate Analyst, collecting and interpreting syndicated scan data to identify trends, drive decision-making, and deliver strategic value to clients.
• Client & Brand Advocacy: Coordinate and execute Brand Advocacy Solutions programs and manage client accounts, focusing on sales objectives, program activations, and delivering measurable ROI.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.25.
• Experience: Demonstrated leadership from previous projects or work experiences; access to a personal vehicle and valid driver’s license for travel requirements.
• Skills: Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills; strong leadership abilities; proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; ability to assess processes meticulously and formulate tangible proposals; willingness to ask questions and deepen knowledge.
• Bonus: Passionate about diverse subjects including Retail, Foodservice, Business Intelligence, Sales, and Marketing.