The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) announced it is now accepting applications for the three DISCUS Academy 2024 Leadership Certificate Programs: the Executive Leadership Program, Developing Leadership Program and the Developing Women Leadership Program conducted in collaboration with Women of the Vine & Spirits (WOTVS).  Interested applicants can find additional information and apply here until January 1, 2024.

“We are thrilled to announce the DISCUS Academy 2024 Leadership Program applications are now open, providing an exciting opportunity for beverage alcohol professionals across all three tiers,” said Chris Swonger, DISCUS president and CEO, in a news release. “Each year this program has grown as word spreads about how impactful the coursework and networking opportunities are for participants. There is so much great talent within our industry, and we look forward to hosting the class of 2024 early next year.”

The leadership certificate programs are open to beverage alcohol professionals across all tiers. The three programs are an 8-month commitment, consisting of virtual and in-person elements. Leadership Certificates are taught in partnership with the University of Kentucky and Cornell University and participants will receive a certificate from either institution upon completion.

DISCUS Academy is committed to upholding the principles of diversity and equality in all areas of its work, seeking to ensure that all participants and other stakeholders are treated fairly and equally at all times. In accordance with this policy, women, minorities, people with disabilities, people of all genders, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

DISCUS Academy Leadership Programs:

Executive Leadership Program

The Executive Leadership Program, in partnership with the University of Kentucky’s Gatton School of Business, develops a leader’s ability to communicate strategy, negotiate skillfully, influence team behaviors and deliver results. The program ensures the right blend of soft skills and a strategic mindset to achieve performance outcomes at participants’ companies. This cohort is designed for spirits professionals who have at least five to seven years of experience and have demonstrated responsibility for cross-functional leadership and/or strategy-level decision-making in the distilled spirits industry.

Developing Leadership Program

The Developing Leadership Program, in partnership with Cornell University, transforms early-stage managers into true leaders, by exploring leadership styles, developing interpersonal skills, and learning how to build and manage a high-performance team. Entrepreneurs, new managers and employees with limited management experience are encouraged to apply. This cohort is designed for any spirits professional with an interest in growing their leadership skills.

Developing Women Leadership Program

This program in collaboration with Women of the Vine & Spirits is conducted in partnership with Cornell University and is designed to empower and advance women in the spirits workforce by developing leadership and managerial skills. This cohort is designed to support and cultivate tomorrow’s trailblazers by teaching early-stage managers how to develop their own leadership style, grow interpersonal skills, and build and manage a high-performance team.