Program Manager, Industry Initiatives and Engagement
Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Compensation
Salary
Range $61,200.00 - $106,500.00
Work Schedule
Standard Hours
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Professional Development
Flexible spending account
remote work options
Job Description
The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) Foundation is a prominent organization dedicated to advancing the hotel and lodging industry through innovative programs and initiatives that support workforce development and professional growth. Known for its commitment to fostering leadership and inclusivity, the AHLA Foundation plays a crucial role in shaping the future of hospitality by equipping industry professionals with the tools and resources they need to succeed. The Foundation actively collaborates with a broad network of industry members, partners, and stakeholders to drive impactful change and promote diversity within the sector.
This role, Program Manager for the AHLA Foundation’s highly visible FORWARD initiative, is a unique opportunity to contribute to a collective movement aimed at advancing women leaders within the hotel and lodging industry. The FORWARD initiative is a strategic platform designed to promote gender parity and create pathways for women to excel in leadership roles. Housed under the foundation’s overarching mission to improve industry standards and opportunities, this program is both innovative and critical for shaping equitable industry futures. The Program Manager will report directly to the Vice President and take ownership of coordinating, managing, and expanding the FORWARD initiative’s activities.
The position is ideal for an experienced program management professional who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach. You will be responsible for overseeing the development, execution, and evaluation of targeted activities aimed at meeting FORWARD’s goals. Your role will involve extensive relationship management, working closely with partners, members, and industry leaders to foster engagement and collaboration. You will translate organizational priorities into actionable project plans, maintain clear timelines, and ensure that programs run smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, you will be integral in monitoring program budgets, vendor contracts, and reporting requirements to support operational success.
Beyond managing program logistics, you will cultivate a vibrant community within the FORWARD/Network, composed of thousands of members. This community will provide opportunities for mentorship, peer support, and professional growth through both virtual and in-person engagement. You will be the primary contact for program participants, supporting outreach and communication efforts that highlight the initiative's impact and success.
Your role will extend to event planning and execution, including the coordination of roundtables, webinars, and other engagement activities that align with industry trends and participant needs. Collaboration with influential industry voices and subject matter experts will be central to delivering relevant and inspiring programming.
The position requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, with at least 4-6 years of professional experience in non-profit program development and management. Experience working on gender parity initiatives is preferred, alongside proven capabilities in managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders. Exceptional communication skills, strategic problem-solving, and the ability to manage and analyze data will be critical to your success. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, project management tools such as Asana, CRMs like Salesforce, and basic design tools like Canva or Adobe will support your efficiency and effectiveness.
Located in Washington, DC, this hybrid role combines remote and in-office work, with an expectation of three days per week at the downtown office. Travel commitments are modest, up to 15% of the time. This is a prime opportunity to lead a forward-thinking initiative within a respected organization that values diversity, inclusion, and professional development in the hospitality landscape.
This role, Program Manager for the AHLA Foundation’s highly visible FORWARD initiative, is a unique opportunity to contribute to a collective movement aimed at advancing women leaders within the hotel and lodging industry. The FORWARD initiative is a strategic platform designed to promote gender parity and create pathways for women to excel in leadership roles. Housed under the foundation’s overarching mission to improve industry standards and opportunities, this program is both innovative and critical for shaping equitable industry futures. The Program Manager will report directly to the Vice President and take ownership of coordinating, managing, and expanding the FORWARD initiative’s activities.
The position is ideal for an experienced program management professional who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach. You will be responsible for overseeing the development, execution, and evaluation of targeted activities aimed at meeting FORWARD’s goals. Your role will involve extensive relationship management, working closely with partners, members, and industry leaders to foster engagement and collaboration. You will translate organizational priorities into actionable project plans, maintain clear timelines, and ensure that programs run smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, you will be integral in monitoring program budgets, vendor contracts, and reporting requirements to support operational success.
Beyond managing program logistics, you will cultivate a vibrant community within the FORWARD/Network, composed of thousands of members. This community will provide opportunities for mentorship, peer support, and professional growth through both virtual and in-person engagement. You will be the primary contact for program participants, supporting outreach and communication efforts that highlight the initiative's impact and success.
Your role will extend to event planning and execution, including the coordination of roundtables, webinars, and other engagement activities that align with industry trends and participant needs. Collaboration with influential industry voices and subject matter experts will be central to delivering relevant and inspiring programming.
The position requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, with at least 4-6 years of professional experience in non-profit program development and management. Experience working on gender parity initiatives is preferred, alongside proven capabilities in managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders. Exceptional communication skills, strategic problem-solving, and the ability to manage and analyze data will be critical to your success. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, project management tools such as Asana, CRMs like Salesforce, and basic design tools like Canva or Adobe will support your efficiency and effectiveness.
Located in Washington, DC, this hybrid role combines remote and in-office work, with an expectation of three days per week at the downtown office. Travel commitments are modest, up to 15% of the time. This is a prime opportunity to lead a forward-thinking initiative within a respected organization that values diversity, inclusion, and professional development in the hospitality landscape.
Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or related experience
- 4-6+ years of professional experience in non-profit program development and management
- Experience working on gender parity initiatives preferred
- Proven project management experience with internal and external stakeholders
- Familiarity managing large networks or communities
- Strong strategic thinking skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to solve problems effectively using data
- Excellent relationship management and customer service skills
- Ability to handle pressure and meet deadlines
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Positive attitude and flexibility
- Experience managing budgets
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, project management tools, CRMs, and design software
- Ability to travel up to 15%
- Willingness to work hybrid schedule based in Washington, DC
Job Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or related experience
- 4-6+ years of professional experience in non-profit program development and management
- Professional and/or volunteer experience working on gender parity initiatives preferred
- Proven project management experience across internal and external stakeholder groups, including high-profile leaders and matrixed corporations/organizations
- Familiarity growing and managing networks, chapters, or communities comprised of thousands of members/participants
- Strong strategic thinking with the ability to identify challenges and opportunities alongside recommendations for program development
- Proven communication skills, both written and verbal
- Dynamic problem-solving with the ability to analyze and report data
- Excellent relationship management skills with strong customer service ethics
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Positive attitude and flexibility to adapt to changing needs
- Experience creating and managing multifaceted budgets
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, project management tools, CRMs, and basic design software
Job Duties
- Oversee the development and day-to-day coordination of industry initiatives from concept through implementation and evaluation
- Translate organizational priorities into clear project plans, timelines, and deliverables
- Collaborate with internal teams to align initiatives with advocacy, membership, education, and foundation priorities
- Coordinate work across internal teams and external partners to keep programs and deliverables on track and aligned with goals
- Monitor program budgets, vendor contracts, and reporting requirements to support effective operations
- Establish and monitor KPIs, success measures, and evaluation processes for programs
- Track program outcomes, assess effectiveness, and suggest updates or enhancements based on findings
- Build and maintain positive relationships with members, partners, and industry participants to support program success
- Develop engagement plan and manage the FORWARD/Network, comprised of thousands of members
- Foster community that provides opportunities for learning, mentorship, peer support, and professional growth in both virtual and in-person environments
- Serve as the main point of contact for program participants and internal teams
- Support outreach and communication efforts that promote initiatives and highlight program impact
- Plan and execute engagement activities such as events, roundtables, webinars, and working groups
- Coordinate and support speaker identification and outreach, agenda development, and talking points
- Support the evaluation of engagement activities to gauge success and enhance future programming
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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