Advanced Development Seminar (ADS) New to Dungarvin

ADS – Advanced Development Seminar – is a long-standing valued component of Dungarvin’s leadership development program. The seminar was initially developed by Frank Madden, a VP of HR for International Milling (later International Multifoods). Understanding the importance of leadership development, Frank and a licensed psychologist facilitated 3-day seminars for six Dungarvin directors selected from across the country twice each year. Over time, the facilitators changed, including different psychologists as well as Dungarvin leaders – notably Cathy Rathburn, Jan Carver, Dave Toeniskoetter and Michaela Madden Smith.  With Dave’s retirement in 2023 and the growing number of Dungarvin directors who could benefit (acquisitions accelerating the numbers), we decided to rescale this program.

Today, ADS 2.0 welcomes 10 directors per cohort to each training session. The restructured seminar includes assessment activities that are completed pre-attendance and culminates in smaller “accountability teams” which collaborate on a project and proposal presented to the Dungarvin Executive Management Team.

“The ADS is a wonderful example of our commitment investing in the development of Dungarvin’s leaders, both now and into the future,” said Claire Wilson, Director Talent Development, standing second from left in picture. “The new ADS prepares our senior leaders to grow with Dungarvin. It was an honor to participate in this year’s seminar alongside colleagues from across the country.” Congratulations to the first ADS Class of 2025!