ICFA Initiates Women’s Leadership Development Program

Furniture World News Desk on 11/12/2024

A forum intended to encourage professional and personal development among women in the casual furnishings industry has been established by the International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA). The Women’s Leadership Network will provide a diverse array of programming, including networking, peer-to-peer learning, small group cohorts, mentorship circles and leadership opportunities.

As the second woman elected as the ICFA Chair, Megan Pierson, Executive Vice President of Poly-Wood, LLC., was determined to actively encourage more women to embrace the many professional and personal growth opportunities of membership. She believed that “creating a women’s leadership network would create a pipeline of women leaders to drive growth in the ICFA and casual furnishings industry along with offering new perspectives and a greater connection to the customer.”

The ICFA Women’s Leadership Network has two small organizing groups spearheading development. The Advisory Board is comprised of accomplished leaders who are charged with providing knowledge and guidance while the Leadership Committee is responsible for executing the goals of the Network.

Advisory Board members include Pierson; Terri Lee Rogers, OW Lee Company; Kristine Schultz-Hutchinson, Patios Plus; Suzie Roberts, Glen Raven; Judy Hamer, Territory Manager of Gensun and Renee Loper-Boyd, ANDMORE. The Leadership Committee members are Erika Canales, Tuuci; Sissy Blanchard, The Porch & Patio Store; Claire Walvick, Independent Sales Representative; Victoria Echols, Revolution Fabrics and Paula Cox, ANDMORE.

A kick-off empowerment networking event was held in the ICFA Member Lounge during Summer Casual Market Atlanta. “I counted more than 125 women in attendance, thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to bond with their peers,” said Pierson. “I look forward to building that same high level of energy and enthusiasm in future events.”

With initial connections established, committees are setting the development program and a calendar of online and in-person events to elevate members to their fullest potential, equipped to excel as leaders and innovators of their workplace, industry and communities.

“All women in the casual furnishing industry are welcome to participate,” added Siri Scott, ICFA Director of Program and Engagement, providing her address, sscott@icfanet.org. “We are working toward a future where women can advance in their lives and careers and are excited to see the results.”

About The International Casual Furnishings Association
The International Casual Furnishings Association supports and promotes the growth of the outdoor and casual furnishings industry through professional education, networking and development. It is the only trade organization committed to promoting the sales of its members’ quality products and services. It is a powerful partnership of manufacturers and importers, retailers, sales representatives and designers of outdoor furnishings plus suppliers to the industry. For more information, please see www.icfanet.org.