Freight Operations and Logistics Manager

Freight Operations and Logistics Manager

Join to apply for the Freight Operations and Logistics Manager role at PMMI:
The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

Base: $ – $ per year

The Manager is responsible for managing all freight & rigging operations for multiple large‑scale machinery trade shows, including pre‑show planning, on‑site management of the marshalling yard and exhibit hall labor, customer service and post‑show reconciliation. This role ensures the smooth, cost‑effective, and timely handling of exhibitor materials, coordinating with contractors, labor, staff, and exhibitors to deliver high‑quality freight experiences.

• Develop comprehensive freight operation plans, schedules, and logistics timelines for the event.
• Coordinate with advanced warehouse, transportation providers, and venue operations teams.
• Provide freight‑related content and service descriptions for the Exhibitor Service Manual.
• Forecast freight volumes, equipment and staffing needs.
• Prepare budgets, target plans, and operational plans for marshalling yard and freight desks.
• Bid, negotiate, and coordinate all necessary equipment rentals (forklifts, ramps, dollies, etc.).
• Maintain advanced understanding of on‑site freight & rigging personnel policies, procedures, and freight management software.
• Oversee inbound & outbound freight operations, marshalling yard activities, traffic & dock management, and freight & rigging desk operations.
• Manage the flow of exhibitor materials to and from the show floor.
• Coordinate equipment rentals and ensure proper allocation of equipment for move‑in, booth work and outbound activities.
• Supervise freight staff, union labor, and independent contractors to ensure safety, accuracy, and compliance.
• Troubleshoot issues such as missing freight and delivery delays.

• Assist exhibitors with target date changes, warehouse questions, shipping instructions, and service orders.
• Coordinate with exhibitors and show contractors to create inbound and outbound freight plans.
• Provide clear communication on freight policies and timelines.
• Serve as main point of contact for exhibitors for freight issues post‑show.
• Source, evaluate, and secure bids for advanced warehouse, equipment vendors, transportation providers, and service suppliers.
• Contract and oversee independent contractors for freight operations.
• Ensure all partners meet performance, safety, and service standards.
• Reconcile invoices and operational charges post‑show.

• Oversee closing of marshalling yard and final freight desk operations.
• Assist with forced/missing freight issues post‑show, including working with official carriers and advanced warehouses on reroutes.
• Conduct post‑show audits and analyze operational performance.
• Complete final billing, vendor reconciliation, and after‑action reporting.

• Ensure all freight operations comply with venue regulations, union contracts, federal transportation laws, and safety protocols.
• Promote and enforce safe handling procedures for staff and contractors.

• Participate in all required pre‑show and post‑show planning meetings.
• Provide recommendations for process improvements, cost savings, and operational efficiency.
• Support any additional freight‑related tasks required to successfully execute the trade show.

• At least 8+ years of experience in freight operations, logistics management, or event operations.
• Proven experience managing freight or logistics for trade shows, exhibitions, or large events.
• Experience contracting and managing third‑party freight and labor vendors.
• Budgeting and financial reconciliation experience, including negotiating bids and managing cost control.
• On‑site management experience, preferably at large‑scale events, including supervising labor crews and managing freight desks.
• Strong vendor management skills and a record of working with union labor.

• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and customer service abilities, able to interface with…