Director of Education

The Director of Education is a newly created role that serves as NCA’s “education quarterback,” responsible for building and leading a modern, member-focused learning ecosystem across all membership sectors.

This role will support NCA’s strategic priorities by bringing together education efforts currently delivered across multiple teams—including Industry Affairs, Scientific & Regulatory Affairs, Public Policy, Communications, Global Business Development, and Member Engagement—into a cohesive, accessible, and forward-looking curriculum that serves member companies of all sizes and NCA affinity groups.

The Director will help evolve NCA’s education approach from traditional, event-based programming to a more dynamic, year-round model that emphasizes practical application, flexibility, and community-driven learning. 

By integrating research, business insights, regulatory guidance, advocacy, professional development, virtual, and live events into a into a cohesive and strategically aligned learning ecosystem, this role will strengthen NCA’s position as a trusted source of actionable industry intelligence, equipping members to navigate complexity, make informed decisions, and compete effectively.

The Director will leverage this new education approach to drive member engagement, enhance the value of membership, and ensure NCA’s education offerings reflect how members learn and apply information today.

Key Responsibilities

Education Strategy & Leadership

• Lead the development and execution of an organization-wide education strategy and year-round roadmap aligned with NCA’s strategic priorities. 
• Serve as the central connector across internal teams to develop and deliver a unified, high-impact education curriculum. 
• Translate emerging industry trends and member needs into forward-looking education priorities and programming. 

Curriculum Development

• Design and deliver a cohesive, year-round education curriculum tailored to diverse member segments, company sizes, and affinity groups. This includes education programming at NCA’s signature events (Sweets & Snacks Expo, State of the Industry Conference, Leadership Summit and Washington Forum).
• Develop practical learning pathways aligned with critical industry needs and member priorities (e.g., consumer and channel insights, regulatory compliance, legislative updates, Always A Treat).
• Identify, recruit, and secure high-quality speakers and subject matter experts to support NCA’s education programming. 

Program Design & Delivery

• Expand education programs into modern, flexible formats—including microlearning, on-demand content libraries, topic-based series, expert-led masterclasses, and role-based learning pathways. 
• Partner across internal teams to develop and integrate education into NCA’s signature events. 
• Leverage AI and emerging technologies to enhance content, personalization, and delivery. 
• Implement modern platforms (e.g., Learning Management Systems for structured learning and content hubs for on-demand access) to create a seamless, scalable user experience. 
• Partner with Membership, Communications and Marketing to drive awareness, participation, and engagement. Ensure education is communicated and easy to find on CandyUSA.com.
• Host and moderate NCA webinars, as needed. 

Operational Management & Growth

• Oversee budget, education calendar, and vendor partnerships to ensure efficient operations and high-quality delivery.
• Partner with NCA Sponsorships to develop strategic partnerships, education sponsors, and revenue-generating programs to expand offerings and offset HR, program and Industry Affairs research costs. 
• Benchmark against peer organizations and adjacent industries to maintain competitiveness and innovation. 
• Oversee end-to-end planning and execution of education programs, both independently and in conjunction with NCA events.

Key Outcomes / Success Measures

• A unified, organization-wide education strategy and cohesive, year-round curriculum. 
• Increased member participation and satisfaction across education offerings. 
• Measurable growth in engagement among small and mid-sized member companies. 
• Strengthened perception of NCA as the leading, trusted source of industry education and insights. 
• Expanded access to flexible, year-round learning beyond live events and webinars. 
• Demonstrated impact on member value, retention, and business outcomes. 
• Successful launch of an integrated, modern learning ecosystem. 
• Development of a sustainable, sponsorship-supported education model. 

What Success Looks Like in This Role

• A builder mindset with energy for creating and shaping new programs and strategies. 
• A collaborative leader who brings people together and breaks down silos. 
• A pragmatic thinker who balances big ideas with strong execution. 
• A strong communicator who can engage both executives and practitioners. 
• Curiosity about the industry and genuine motivation to help members succeed. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree a plus. 
• 8 years of relevant experience in learning, strategy, or program development (association experience a plus, not required). 
• Demonstrated ability to build, launch, or scale programs, initiatives, or learning experiences. 
• Strong strategic thinking and execution skills, with a willingness to be hands-on in a lean environment. 
• Strong communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence across teams and stakeholders. 
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to lead initiatives from concept through execution. 
• Ability to translate complex topics into clear, practical, and engaging content or experiences. 
• Fluency with digital tools and emerging technologies, including AI. 
• High ownership, strong work ethic, and a proactive, problem-solving mindset. 
• Interest in or familiarity with food, CPG, retail, or manufacturing industries is a plus.