Megan Nash, 40
Vice President Member Engagement & Business Development, International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), Washington, D.C.
June 12, 2026 | 3 min to read
SHORT BIO
Hometown: Kennett Square, PA
Hobbies: Running, Reading, Cheering for Philadelphia sports, Enjoying live music
Family/Community: St. Patrick Catholic Church, Eagles Autism Foundation, Breast Cancer Research
Motto in life: Keep growing, stay grounded, and never lose sight of what matters most.
With more than 15 years of experience in the produce and floral industry, Nash’s career has been rooted in people.
She began her career in 2008 at Country Fresh Mushroom Co. Inc. In 2013, she joined The PMA Foundation for Industry Talent as a program manager, leading career pathway programs and expanding industry outreach, before advancing to program director.
In 2022, she was promoted to director of education and talent at IFPA, where she led cross-functional teams to deliver programming and elevate the association’s position as a thought leader. She also contributed to the organization’s strategic planning efforts. Her work has focused on building scalable, high-impact initiatives, including expanding student programs and partnerships, creating a leadership development pathway, and growing the Women’s Fresh Perspectives portfolio.
In her current role, she oversees member engagement and business development, continuing to focus on delivering value, driving growth, and helping shape a more connected and future-ready industry.
Q: How did you begin working in the produce industry and why?
Growing up in Kennett Square, PA, I was surrounded by the mushroom industry, but I never expected to build a career in it. After graduating college, I started in newspaper advertising sales and quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. I leaned into my network, landed at a local mushroom company, and was immediately drawn to the pace, complexity, and, most importantly, the people.
Q: What do you wish you knew when you first started your career?
I wish I had been more intentional about learning in the moment. Early in your career, it’s easy to focus on what’s next instead of embracing where you are. Some of the most valuable growth comes from being present, listening, observing, asking questions, and learning from everyone around you. Titles come and go, but how you build your foundation stays with you.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of in your career?
I’m most proud of the growth, evolution, and impact of the Women’s Fresh Perspectives portfolio. It has evolved to meet the changing needs of the industry, and seeing the impact it has on individuals’ careers has been rewarding. I’m equally proud of the people I’ve worked with and supported along the way. Seeing others grow and succeed is one of the most meaningful parts of leadership.
Q: Where do you think growth happens the most?
It is hard to say growth happens the most in one area. It happens through the connection of all parts of the supply chain. When what’s happening in the field aligns with what’s happening at retail, in marketing, and with the consumer, that’s when you see momentum.
Q: What advice would you give someone new to the produce industry?
Be curious and take advantage of every opportunity to learn! This industry is filled with amazing people who reward curiosity, relationships, and those willing to step into new spaces. Ask questions, build relationships, and don’t be afraid to explore different areas.
NOMINEES
