Investing in the next generation of cold chain leaders
Applications are now open for the Cold Chain Federation Emerging Leaders Programme 2026.
The cold chain industry is built on talented people who keep essential food, medicines and other temperature-sensitive products moving every day. As our industry continues to evolve, investing in the next generation of leaders has never been more important.
The Emerging Leaders Programme recognises individuals with the potential to become future leaders within the cold chain sector and provides them with the development opportunities, industry exposure and recognition needed to support their career progression.
Open exclusively to employees of Cold Chain Federation member companies, the programme offers successful applicants an Emerging Leaders Bursary, providing access to leadership development, networking opportunities and increased industry profile.
Applications can be submitted by individuals themselves or by a colleague, manager or employer who wishes to nominate someone with leadership potential. Winners will be announced at Cold Chain Live! 2026.
What does the Emerging Leaders Bursary include?
Successful applicants will receive:
- A place on Cultivate, a 12-month leadership development programme delivered by The Leadership Trust
- Attendance at key Cold Chain Federation events, including Climate & Energy Summit, Summer Party and Cold Chain Live
- A roundtable discussion with senior industry leaders
- A Generation Logistics case study
- Recognition through Cold Chain Federation communications and media activity
- Opportunities to build connections with peers and industry leaders from across the sector
The Cultivate Programme
Delivered in partnership with The Leadership Trust, Cultivate is a comprehensive leadership development programme designed to support emerging and first-time leaders.
The 12-month programme includes:
- A 360-degree leadership assessment and feedback process
- A three-day residential leadership development course
- Online workshops and development modules
- A second residential learning experience
- Ongoing coaching, reflection and personal development activities
The programme is designed to help participants build confidence, strengthen leadership skills and develop the tools needed to succeed in future leadership roles.
Who should apply?
We are looking for individuals who have demonstrated initiative, influence and potential within their organisation and who would benefit from further investment in their leadership development.
Applicants may already be managing people, leading projects or taking on additional responsibilities within their role. Equally, they may simply have shown a strong commitment to personal development and a desire to make a positive impact within their business and the wider industry.
There are no age restrictions and no minimum experience requirements.
The programme is open to employees of Cold Chain Federation member companies only.
How to apply
Applications for the Emerging Leaders Programme 2026 are now open.
Applications may be submitted by the individual applicant or by someone nominating them.
The application process includes a series of questions about the individual’s achievements, leadership potential and future aspirations.
Applications close on Friday 28 August 2026.
Applications will be reviewed by the Cold Chain Federation CEO.
Successful applicants will be announced later in the year.
Take the next step in your leadership journey.
Previous Emerging Leaders
Since launching the programme, the Cold Chain Federation has awarded Emerging Leaders Bursaries to outstanding individuals from across the cold chain sector.
2025 Emerging Leaders
- Sean Hurley, Star Refrigeration
- Daniel Boonham, Samworth Brothers
- Jack Brocklehurst, Blue Cube
- Harriet Brown, Hemsec
2024 Emerging Leaders
- Valentina Florina-Drescanu, Oakland International
- Kale-Yves Chrouch, Lineage Logistics
- Matt Anderson, Culina Group
- Izzie Cogan, Magnavale