Freight Manager

Fern is at the top of the trade show and expo service industry. Our operation spans more than 200 cities from coast to coast. In other words, wherever there’s a major convention center and event venue, we’re there with experienced local teams providing exceptional service and support, whenever you need it.  We recognize that our team members are the core of our company. It is why they stay with us for so long, and it's also what attracts new clients to come aboard. 

We are looking to add a Freight Manager to our Indy operations team.  You will report directly to the GM.  Position does require being onsite full-time plus the ability to travel to various shows occasionally. 

Salary is $70-80K

What you’ll do:  

• Pre-Show Planning
  1. Coordinate with Account Manager on Show details and Needs
     • Show Management freight 
     • Assist with Targeted floorplans
  2. Verify Schedule with AE, Fern Warehouse, Facility
  3. Plan Equipment Needs
     • Rental equipment needs to Operations Manager/Project Manager
       • Forklifts
       • Propane
       • Specialized equipment
  4. Plan On Site freight production labor calls
     • Drivers
     • Supervisors / Leads
     • Fern local labor
     • Building / Union Labor
  5. Provide Budget / Labor Tracking to OM/PM
  6. Identify and Schedule Marshaling Yard Usage
  7. Participate in Pre-Show Production Meetings – 90,60,30,10
     • Both Local and National produced Events

• Daily Management
  1. Advance Freight Receiving Operation
     • Warehouse Live Prep and Setup for Event
       • Work with Exhibit Services Rep and National Freight Ops
     • Plan Daily staffing needs based on show schedule 
     • Adherence to National Freight SOPs/Processes for Adv Receiving
     • Maintain trailer inventory and needs
     • Ensure accurate record keeping of adv receiving
     • Quality Control of our Adv Receiving process
  2. Manage Drivers and Tractor Usage
     • Adhere to Company Policies and Procedures
     • Manage DOT Compliance
     • Work with OM/Warehouse Manager for Reporting /Logs

• OnSite Management
  1. Oversee Set up of Marshaling Yard
  2. Insure Freight Ops has Floorplans and Exhibitor Lists
  3. Placement of Directional and Safety Signage
  4. Freight Desks (in compliance with company graphic pkg)
  5. Manage and schedule drivers
  6. Oversee and Manage Supervisors and leads
  7. Attend onsite daily Production Meetings 
  8. Maintain Daily Freight Recap / Notes
  9. Implement and Monitor all National Freight Ops SOPs/procedures

Who You Are:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in material handling, logistics, or event operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role, preferably in the tradeshow or event services industry.
• Proven experience managing large-scale tradeshow logistics operations and overseeing a team.
• In-depth understanding of tradeshow material handling processes and best practices.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams effectively.
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Proficient in project management and scheduling software.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Strong knowledge of safety and regulatory standards related to material handling in the event industry.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing client needs and event requirements.
• Knowledge of specific material handling equipment and technologies used in the tradeshow industry (e.g., forklifts, pallet jacks, air-ride equipment).
• Experience with budgeting and cost control in a large-scale operational setting.
• Comfortable with traveling up to 20% of the time.  

Fern is an equal opportunity employer committed to equal consideration for all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.