Posted: 11-Jun-26
Location: Within one hour of Arlington, VA
Type: Full Time
Salary: $75,000
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ABOUT US
The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) is based in the DC area and is the heartbeat of industries that bring warmth, flavor, and joy to our lives. We champion the essential products that make family gatherings and moments with friends unforgettable—from cozy fireplaces to sizzling barbecue grills and inviting outdoor living accessories. Fun fact: Over 80% of households have a barbecue grill!
Events are one of the most visible ways we serve our members. From board meetings and leadership events to industry receptions and our industry's convention, HPBExpo, we create experiences that bring people together, strengthen relationships, and move our industry forward. We're looking for the person who will help make those experiences exceptional, and enjoy doing it!
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
- You love turning complexity into order. While others see dozens of moving pieces, you see a project plan. Timelines, room blocks, BEOs, run-of-shows, AV specs, transportation, speaker needs, and vendor deadlines all have a place in your system.
- You negotiate well and build relationships even better. Convention centers, hotels, and vendors know you as firm on terms and a pleasure to work with. Those relationships pay off when you need a quick change at 7 AM on event day.
- You're the calmest person on-site. When the keynote runs long, the catering count is off, or the AV cuts out, you've already got the fix in motion before anyone else notices the problem.
- You juggle multiple events at different stages—one in contracting, one in planning, one on-site next week—and keep each moving without being reminded. Deadlines don't sneak up on you; you see them coming months out, and you leave enough space in the final stages so last-minute changes and ideas don't surprise or shake you.
- Your idea of an ideal workweek: locking in a convention center contract for an event three years out, reviewing BEOs for our summer board meeting, and running a flawless event. If you measure your work by how elegantly manage the unexpected, this is your role.
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the Manager, Meetings & Events, plans and executes HPBA's portfolio of events, including aspects of our national trade show. This role combines event logistics, contract negotiation, venue sourcing, vendor management, and on-site leadership to deliver exceptional member experiences.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Event Planning & Execution
- Plan and manage logistics for HPBExpo, in-conjunction-with events, and association events, including receptions, industry events, and executive and board meetings.
- Serve as on-site lead during major events and meetings.
Vendor & Contract Management
- Lead destination research, venue sourcing, RFP processes, and contract negotiations.
- Build and manage relationships with convention centers, hotels, and service providers to ensure quality, value, and operational excellence.
Operations & Performance
- Manage event budgets with a focus on responsible stewardship and cost-effective execution.
- Evaluate event performance and attendee feedback to improve future programs and processes.
- Partner cross-functionally with internal teams, association leadership, and external partners.
QUALIFICATIONS
- CMP designation strongly preferred.
- 8+ years of experience in meeting planning, preferably with conferences, a national association or a corporate organization.
- Proven experience negotiating contracts and managing convention, hotel, or large-scale event venues and logistics.
- Experience working with volunteer leaders and external stakeholders.
- Exceptional organizational, project management, and relationship-building skills.
- Proficiency with event management platforms, project management tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & EXPECTATIONS
- Remote work environment with required travel for events and meetings.
- In-person meetings in the Arlington, VA area 1-2x per month, on average. More often, leading up to our largest events. Must be able to drive into Arlington for meetings on short notice.
- Availability to support evening or weekend programming as needed.
- Access to a reliable internet connection and a dedicated, quiet workspace is required for working remotely.
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing typical office duties.
- Occasional lifting of office supplies and packages may be required. Ability to pack and ship supplies for big annual events.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS ROLE
- Purpose-Driven Work: Our events create meaningful, intentional experiences for members to connect, learn, collaborate, and strengthen their businesses.
- A Team Built for Growth: Join supportive, growth-minded colleagues who embrace agility, open communication, and a shared mission, and who will give you room to expand your skills, take on new challenges, and own meaningful projects.
- Opportunity to Build Something Meaningful: For the right candidate, this position provides the opportunity to help shape the future of HPBA's meetings and events strategy and grow alongside the organization.
TRAVEL
Domestic travel approximately 6–8 times per year, up to a week at a time, including some weekends.
