WASHINGTON, DC — May 6, 2003 — In recognition of excellence in human resources (HR) and training initiatives, the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) will begin accepting nominations for the 2nd Annual Maximizing People Potential Award on June 1.   The award, given annually to a retailer or wholesaler who has developed an exceptional HR or training program, will be presented in September at the 2003 FMI Human Resources/Training and Development (HR/T&D) Conference, September 21-24 in Washington, DC.

“The Maximizing People Potential Awards will spotlight innovative human resources and training programs, as well as the HR and training practitioners who developed them,” said Kim Roberts, manager, education programs, FMI. “The awards program also provides an opportunity for FMI member companies to exchange valuable ideas with each other and to share program results.”

Examples of HR and training programs that may be considered include a cafeteria benefits program that reduces costs and increases morale by providing flexible benefits for associates; a management development initiative that enhances the skills and performance of the management team for a sustained period of time; or a safety training program that reduces injuries and the associated expenses for a sustained period of time.

Any FMI retailer or wholesaler member registered for the HR/T&D Conference can submit one or more entries. Award candidates will be evaluated on:

• The extent to which the contribution gave a tangible return on investment for the organization for a sustained period (at least 12 months).
• The impact the contribution had on a workplace learning and performance, including influence on practitioners and thought leaders within the organization.
• Quality of supporting materials (but must not comprise more than 50 percent of the initiative).
• Use of original thought and development from organization practitioners.

Submissions must be a 1,500- to 2,000-word summary describing the initiative, its focus and scope. Entries must be submitted and postmarked by July 31, 2003. A maximum of two articles or work products detailing and/or supporting the initiative will be accepted.

Eight semifinalists will be selected and companies notified by August 31. Semifinalists will then give a 15-20 minute presentation before an initial judging panel at the HR/T&D Conference on Sunday, September 21. The panel will select three finalists to showcase their initiative for conference attendees during the Monday afternoon general session. Attendees will vote for the most exceptional entry and the recipient will be presented with a trophy at an awards dinner on Monday, September 22.

To submit an entry, please contact Kim Roberts (202-220-0720, kroberts@fmi.org). For conference details, please visit the FMI Web site at www.fmi.org/events.