As the food retail industry continues to serve as the backbone for 9.5 million New Jersey residents, the New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) is looking to the next generation to lead the way. During its annual meeting on Jan. 28, NJFC leaders officially announced the 10 young professionals selected for the 2026 Leadership Development Class.
Launched in 2014, the program is designed to bridge the gap between daily operations and high-level advocacy. It targets high-potential employees in the retail, wholesale, and manufacturing sectors who show a passion for the industry and a keen interest in government trends.
The year-long curriculum is far more than a classroom experience. Participants are given a “front-row seat” to the legislative process, including:
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Trenton Briefings: Meeting with state legislators to discuss policies affecting NJ grocers.
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Washington D.C. Summits: Engaging with members of Congress on federal food and retail issues.
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Industry Networking: Direct access to CEOs and veterans of the state’s food distribution network.
“We are not just responding to what’s next, we are helping shape it,” NJFC Chair Jason Read, director of store operations for Wawa said. “We recognize that our future depends on up-and-coming leaders.”
The program has a track record of turning “rising stars” into industry powerhouses. Notable graduates, such as Andrew Kent of Glass Gardens, have gone on to serve as Board Chairs for the Council.
Jessica Scaduto of Food Circus Foodtown and Matt Lipowski of J&J Snack Foods—both former graduates—introduced this year’s competitive pool of applicants. Scaduto emphasized that the skills gained, from public policy to industry networking, are “invaluable” for those moving into executive roles.
This year’s class represents a diverse cross-section of the state’s most recognizable food brands:
| Name | Company |
| Emanuel Disporto | Wakefern |
| Theresa Larsen | Inserra Supermarkets |
| Amanda Lawton | Wawa |
| Dan Levison | Vibal Energy Tea |
| TJ Manning | JOH |
| Joe McCarthy | Bimbo Bakeries |
| Jacky Tang | Pepsico |
| Billy Tencza | The Campbell’s Company |
| Jenn Vannucci | Krasdale Foods |
| Dana Ward | Acme Markets |
The 2026 class is set to graduate in October during the NJFC’s annual “Good Government” breakfast, where they will join state decision-makers to celebrate their completion of the program.
