Manager, Event Programming

Position Summary:

The Manager of Event Programming will support the planning and delivery of event programming across AHLA and AHLA Foundation’s portfolio of events. This role combines strong organizational skills and project management coordination along with research and writing (including run‑of‑show scripting). You’ll support content development for the organization’s signature events including Forward Women in Hospitality, The Hospitality Show, and additional programs and events as needed, working under the direction of the Senior Director of Event Programming.

This role also closely collaborates with key staff across the association to reach our ultimate goal of bringing our events to life.

• Maintain meticulous project plans, timelines, and trackers across multiple events
• Coordinate logistics for assigned programs (speaker schedules, travel details, vendor inputs, onsite needs)
• Draft and update run‑of‑show documents, scripts, speaker briefings, prepare questions, and moderator notes
• Track and input all speaker logistics, programming updates, sessions, titles in CVENT
• Coordinate and schedule all prep calls with panelists, speakers, and industry leaders
• Research speakers/topics and track hospitality, business, and cultural trends to inform programming
• Partner with marketing, membership, partnerships, and communications teams to align on deliverables and deadlines
• Communicate clearly and professionally with speakers, moderators, partners & vendors
• Support debriefs and document improvements for future events
• Stay current on industry‑related information including:
  • Trends in key subject areas such as technology, innovation, ESG, DE&I
  • Key political/legislative issues
  • US and international affairs
  • AHLA‑led campaigns
• Other special projects and duties as assigned

• 4+ years relevant experience (events, programming, content, or related)
• Bachelor’s degree required; liberal arts background preferred
• Excellent organizational and project coordination skills
• Strong writing skills; comfortable scripting live programs
• Strong critical thinking, curiosity, and follow‑through
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative, hospitality‑forward style
• Open to feedback, ideas, and collaboration

• Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to write and edit clear, engaging, and relevant content
• Self‑motivated individual who is also a team player with a high level of professionalism and emotional intelligence
• Detail‑oriented individual with exceptional organizational and time management skills
• Strong work ethic, comfortable in a fast paced, deadline‑oriented workplace
• Excels at research, writing, ideation, and brainstorming
• Experienced computer and software knowledge including knowledge of the latest AI tools, Office 365, Canva, CVENT, Adobe

• Position located in Washington, DC area.
• Ability to travel.
• Ability to lift 35 pounds.
• Hybrid – 3 days in office (Tues., Wed. & Thurs.).
• Target salary range for this position is $70,000 – $80,000

AHLA is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position. We are looking for someone with relevant skills and experience, not a checklist that exactly matches the job description. We want to help you grow and in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.