Introduction
For 20 years, the NPTA Alliance Management Development Program (MDP) at Miami University has helped our industry's managers develop their full potential to work more effectively. Successful paper, packaging and supplies distribution industry managers and executives must master not only the technical aspects of the job, but financial, marketing and interpersonal skills.

The Program's course of study has become the preeminent educational vehicle for paper, packaging and supplies industry managers in North America and from abroad. Since its inception, more than 100 companies have looked to this NPTA Alliance program because it is industry-specific…a rare commodity among university-based programs.

The Program covers a good deal of ground in two sessions. The subject matter is directly related to what managers do every day on the job. And, its design helps them apply what they have learned when they return to work.

PLEASE NOTE: Individuals have a choice of starting with either the Fall Session or Spring Session. The two sessions must be attended consecutively or there will be a transfer fee applied (see Tuition Policy).

A Curriculum Crafted by Industry Leaders
Unlike most university-based management programs, the NPTA Alliance Program has been designed by the leaders of our industry. This ensures that the Program's content will meet your expectations.

Key Educational Objectives
The detailed curriculum that follows will help you gain insight into the Program's content. But, it is important to note that there are specific educational objectives that are paramount. After attending the NPTA Alliance Management Development Program, managers will be able to:

1. Put together a marketing strategy for the company
2. Understand the importance and role of market segmentation, and the supply chain
3. Understand and apply benchmarking to improve your company's performance
4. Analyze and manage the financial aspects of the company for more effective decision making
5. Lead and manage people more effectively
6. Better manage job stress and rapid change
7. Become more creative in solving daily problems
8. Apply entrepreneurial principles to project management
9. Utilize new ideas gleaned from networking
10. Increase your company's ability to compete in the marketplace

Who Should Attend
Over the years, a pattern of attendance has become clear. Those who are in management, decision-making positions in paper, packaging and supplies companies are invited to participate in the Program. Typically, those who are on track to move ahead in their companies, are selected to attend the Program. Job functions for both distributors and their suppliers often include:

• Newly appointed Presidents
• General Managers/Vice Presidents
• Marketing and Sales Managers
• Divisional or Branch Managers
• Others with management responsibility
• Anyone moving into a management position

The Location
The Marcum Conference Center and Inn, where the Management Development Program is held, is very important to the learning that takes place. It is a first-class conference center on the campus of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

The University includes some 1,800 acres and is located approximately 35 miles north of Cincinnati, Ohio. Miami University is renowned for academic excellence and tradition, and also houses a highly regarded Department of Paper Science and Engineering.