Leaders of Tomorrow Awards

The meat industry is built on people — and the next generation is already making its mark. The Leaders of Tomorrow awards celebrate rising professionals whose fresh ideas, collaborative spirit, and bold leadership are shaping the future of animal protein. 

From advancing sustainability and food safety to reimagining meal solutions and global trade, these individuals represent the diverse opportunities and impact found across our industry. 

Nominations for the 2026 awards are now closed and winners have been notified.  

SPONSORED BY:

Amcor logo

2026 Winners

Will McDoniel

Meat & Seafood Category Manager

Harps Food Stores

Scott Cassel

South East Regional Sales Manager

Kayem Foods, Inc.

Maegan Willis-Balliet

Brand Marketing Manager

Rastelli Foods Group

Joe Brawne

Senior Director – Procurement

Thomas Foods International, USA

Emma Pierce

Senior Brand Manager

Seaboard Foods

Rachael Wagner

Manager Sustainability Risk Management

Eocene Environmental Group

Kyle Bardel

Sales Manager

Marcus Food Co

Chandler Webb - Tyson Foods
Chandler Webb

Manager Customer Insights

Tyson Foods

Shannon Permenter

Freight and Distribution Manager

Teys USA

Eric McCormick

Sales Manager

UNFI

Where Rising Talent Becomes Industry Impact

Two men shaking hands at conference

Program Benefits for 2026 Winners

Ten selected honorees will receive: 

  • Complimentary AMC 2026 Registration – Valued at $845
  • Exclusive Recognition & Dinner – Celebrate with peers, mentors, and alumni in a private networking setting. 
  • 1:1 Mentorship – Pairing with a seasoned professional to guide them during and beyond the conference. 

Who Should Be Nominated

Nominees must:

  • Be a mid-career professional in the meat retail industry.
  • Plan to attend the 2026 Annual Meat Conference.
  • Have the support of their senior management.
  • Be an employee of a Meat Institute or FMI member company.

Key Dates & Process

  • Nominations Open: October 20, 2025 
  • Deadline to Nominate: December 12, 2025
  • Winners Announced: January 9, 2025 (limit one winner per company) 

Selected individuals must participate fully in AMC education sessions, networking events, and the mentorship program. 

Ryan (Sales Mgr)

There are so many things I learned from the program that I got to experience first-hand. I am grateful to be a past participant. Rare access to talk one on one with accomplished leaders in the meat and retail industries, which has helped to further develop my leadership and communication skills. The opportunity to network with industry professionals at different organizations across the country and world. The breakout sessions that are offered during the annual program are incredible!

Sarah (Regional Sales Mgr)

Being recognized as a Leaders of Tomorrow provided recognition within my organization, industry and opened significant networking opportunities for me throughout the conference. More importantly, the experience has extended well beyond the conference to strengthen relationships with my peers and industry leaders through thoughtful and informative workshops. I would strongly encourage nomination of young professionals for inclusion in this unique and very rewarding experience.

Ryan (Director)

I’ve really enjoyed being part of the group. Not only is it a great way to network, but its intentional networking. Through the mentorship and the collaboration with other Leaders of Tomorrow members and guest speakers during the meetings this year, I’ve been exposed to new ways of thinking and problem solving that I can easily apply back to my role.

Bailey (Brand Mgr)

Being a part of the Leaders of Tomorrow program has been an incredible experience! For those who want it, it is an opportunity to gain exposure to our industry, connect with each other, learn from industry leaders, and stay current with the trends affecting our businesses. But it doesn’t stop there – staying engaged with the growing group of Leaders of Tomorrow alumni is just as impactful and rewarding. Don’t miss out!

2025 Winners

Juan Rosendo

Assistant Category Manager

Albertsons Companies

Brandon Suttles

Director of Sales Partner Relationships

Marcus Food Co.

Cheyenne McEndaffer

Special Projects Liaison

Eocene Environmental Group

Steven Ruggiere

Sr Mng of Revenue Growth Management

Perdue

Matt Feltz

Senior Manager – Customer Support & Orders Management

Thomas Foods International, USA

Jessica Maus

Case Ready Product Manager

Cryovac

Aaron Tapian

R&D Lead, Prepared Meals

Cargill

Kristen Zoldan

Category Manager – Meat

Sprouts Farmers Market

MaryAnn Pannkuk

Senior Technical Account Specialist

Merck Animal Health

Danny Miller

Director of Trade Marketing & Category Management

Bob Evans Farm