POSITION SUMMARY

The HPBA Affiliate Executive Director provides administrative leadership, advocacy coordination, and operational management for the Affiliate. This role ensures the Affiliate operates efficiently, meets all deliverables outlined in the HPBA Affiliation Agreement, responds proactively to member needs, and maintains strong, consistent alignment with the goals, policies, and initiatives of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) at the national level.

The Executive Director is responsible for daily operations, member relations, advocacy activities, financial oversight, event planning, and communications. The position requires a highly organized, tech-savvy, and proactive leader who can balance strategic alignment with attention to operational details.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Advocacy, Government Relations & National Coordination

• Serve as the primary staff liaison between the Affiliate and HPBA National, ensuring alignment with strategic initiatives, advocacy priorities, and communication protocols.
• Represent the Affiliate in HPBA national meetings, advocacy coalitions, affiliate leadership meetings, and relevant legislative or regulatory discussions.
• Maintain strong relationships with HPBA National, elected officials, regulatory agencies, and allied trade groups to advance industry interests.
• Keep members informed on advocacy updates, pending legislation, and opportunities to participate in grassroots engagement.
• Support and participate in HPBA or Affiliate-led grassroots initiatives, education programs, and advocacy campaigns at local, state, and federal levels.

 Administration, Governance & Compliance

• Manage day-to-day operations in accordance with Affiliate bylaws and policies.
• Ensure compliance with the HPBA Affiliation Agreement, including:
  • Submitting documents, including bylaws, Articles of Incorporation, board meeting minutes, year-end financial statements, annual tax returns, and formal communications to HPBA.
  • Adhering to HPBA’s antitrust policy and guidelines.
  • Maintaining accurate membership data in HPBA’s database throughout the year.
• Coordinate and support Board and committee meetings; prepare agendas, minutes, and track follow-up actions.
• Follow HPBA policies, procedures, and guidelines.

Membership Engagement & Growth

• Lead, track, and report on recruitment and retention efforts to include all entities operating in the hearth, patio, and barbecue industry.
• Implement campaigns based on prospective and previous member lists with multiple touchpoints (emails, calls, mailings, recognition in communications).
• Conduct annual member check-ins to assess needs and encourage participation in Affiliate and HPBA programs.
• Promote HPBA National programs, events, and benefits to local members.

Events, Programs & Education

• Plan and execute Affiliate events, including annual meetings, educational programs, and networking opportunities.
• Provide members with access to NFI courses, CEU opportunities, and professional development programs (both in-person and online).
• Align Affiliate programming with HPBA strategic plan and initiatives.
• Schedule Affiliate events in coordination with HPBA National and other relevant industry events to maximize member participation.

 Financial Management

• Manage, update, and safeguard member and financial data in accordance with HPBA data-sharing policy and applicable privacy laws.
• Assist the Affiliate Treasurer with budget preparation, monitoring, and reporting.
• Comply with the HPBA Affiliate-HPBA Dues Sharing Policy and other revenue-sharing agreements.
• Identify non-dues revenue opportunities (sponsorships, events) within the parameters of the Affiliation Agreement.

Marketing, Communications & Public Relations

• Develop and maintain regular member communications, ensuring professionalism, accuracy, and alignment with HPBA initiatives.
• Ensure all communications adhere to HPBA brand guidelines and co-branding requirements.
• Maintain an up-to-date website and social media presence tied to major HPBA and Affiliate priorities.
• Promote HPBExpo and actively support regional/national campaigns.

REQUIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Strong leadership and relationship-building skills with a focus on responsiveness and proactive service.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, including public speaking.
• Proven organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Knowledge of nonprofit governance, budgeting, and financial oversight.
• Familiarity with trade associations and/or non-profit management.

 Technology & Software Prociciency

• Communication & Marketing Tools
• Membership & Event Management CRMs
• Website & Content Management Systems
• Productivity & File Management

 Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of management experience, preferably in a non-profit or trade association setting.
• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Communications, or related field preferred.
• Experience in event planning, membership development, advocacy, and administration strongly preferred.
• Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation strongly preferred.

About Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association

The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), based just outside of Washington, DC, is the North American industry association for manufacturers, retailers, distributors, representatives, service firms, and allied associates for all types of fireplace, stove, heater, barbecue, and outdoor living appliances and accessories. HPBA provides professional member services and industry support in government relations, events, market research, education, certifications, consumer education, and industry promotion.

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