Project Manager, Tradeshow Services & Operations (NPE)

The Project Manager, Tradeshow Services & Operations is responsible for managing cross-functional projects related to exhibitor services, international pavilion coordination, and show committee support.

This role involves scheduling meetings, drafting minutes, tracking action items, and maintaining accurate exhibitor records. The Project Manager will lead timelines, facilitate stakeholder communications, and ensure deliverables are met with precision and professionalism. While administrative duties are part of the role, the emphasis is on proactive project oversight, process improvement, and effective stakeholder engagement.  

Responsibilities:

Project Management & Stakeholder Coordination

• Lead and manage all administrative functions related to show committees, including scheduling, minute-taking, and tracking resolution of action items.
• Coordinate international pavilion logistics, including booth assignments, exhibitor record updates, and outreach to pavilion organizers to optimize space utilization.
• Support exhibitor onboarding and engagement, with a focus on first-time exhibitors, in collaboration with the Director, Tradeshow Operations.

Operational Execution & Data Management 

• Monitor and respond to exhibitor inquiries via multiple email inboxes and phone support channels.
• Maintain and update exhibitor frequently asked questions (FAQs) and forms on the Exhibitor Resource Center, ensuring accuracy and accessibility throughout the show cycle.
• Track and manage submission of required exhibitor forms, including recycling and transportation documentation, and maintain tracking systems for internal and partner use.
• Prepare and distribute exhibitor lists to contractors, venues, and subcontractors.

Systems & Process Oversight 

• Update and maintain floor plans in Map Your Show, including booth adjustments and new assignments.
• Ensure exhibitor data accuracy across systems, including company and contact updates, booth requirements, and approvals.
• Support the Director, Trade Show Operations in maintaining the overall show schedule, including education and event programming in Map Your Show.
• Process and confirm affiliate and partnership exhibitor approvals, assign booth space, and distribute credentials.

Quality Assurance & Onsite Support 

• Proofread exhibitor communications and provide recommendations for clarity and effectiveness.
• Travel to Orlando for the Space Selection & Planning event and NPE: The Plastics Show to provide onsite support and coordination.
• Provide general operational support as needed, including visa letters and other exhibitor services.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent work experience.
• A minimum of two years of experience in a related position in a trade show or convention role; trade association experience preferred.
• Experience with event management and floor planning management platforms (e.g. iMIS, Map Your Show, etc.) preferred
• Experience with project & program management.
• Certified in Event Management (CEM) is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Knowledge of tradeshow operations and practices.
• Written and verbal communications skills with diverse stakeholder audiences.
• Self-motivated with attention to detail problem-solving, organizational, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work well autonomously and collectively to build consensus amongst internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to prioritize and work on various projects simultaneously, adjust to changing priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver results.
• An earnest work ethic and dedication to collective success of the organization in service of our membership.
• A commitment to promoting and working in an inclusive and diverse environment with a variety of colleagues from multiple backgrounds.
• Demonstrate a commitment to embody and uphold PLASTICS’ core values of ethics, unity, impact, optimism, and innovation in all interactions and responsibilities.
• Working knowledge in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to travel (<10%).

Salary Range: $58,000-$73,000/annually

About PLASTICS

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is a purpose-driven organization here to support the entire plastics supply chain. We are proud to represent the nearly one million people who are employed by companies in the plastics supply chain in the United States. PLASTICS is a dynamic organization with an ambitious team, striving for growth and success. Together we shape the direction of the entire plastics industry and as a job requirement, have some fun while doing so. Employees have the opportunity to learn, develop, and impact both the industry and our association. We also encourage volunteerism. As a team we seek opportunities to improve the communities in which we work and visit, including organizing riverbank clean-ups.

We offer generous benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, well-being, a 401(k) plan with employer contributions, competitive salaries, and work from home flexibility. We work hard, we play hard, and we value a work-life balance! In fact, we offer unlimited paid time off, and employees take personal time off at their own discretion.

PLASTICS is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, or any factor prohibited by applicable law.