Project Manager – Trade Show Services
We are seeking an experienced Project Manager with a background in trade show services to oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of trade show programs and exhibitor services. This individual will serve as a key point of contact for clients, show organizers, vendors, and internal teams, ensuring all logistical and operational details are managed efficiently from initial planning through show-site execution.
This role requires a strong understanding of the trade show industry, including show regulations, exhibitor requirements, general contractor services, labor coordination, material handling, shipping, installation and dismantle, and show-site logistics. The Project Manager will be responsible for managing schedules, budgets, vendor relationships, and project details while anticipating potential challenges and keeping all parties informed throughout the process. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple shows and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities
- Manage the planning and execution of trade show programs, coordinating all services and logistical requirements from initial planning through show close.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, exhibitors, show organizers, general contractors, vendors, and internal teams.
- Coordinate exhibitor services, including booth requirements, show orders, labor, material handling, shipping, electrical, rigging, furnishings, and other show-site services.
- Review exhibitor manuals, floor plans, show schedules, service forms, and venue requirements to ensure all deadlines and regulations are met.
- Develop and manage project schedules, budgets, timelines, and operational plans for multiple concurrent trade show programs.
- Coordinate advance warehouse shipments, direct-to-show shipments, freight arrangements, tracking, and material handling requirements.
- Oversee installation and dismantle schedules, coordinating labor, supervisors, subcontractors, and show-site personnel.
- Work directly with general contractors, convention centers, show management, and service providers to resolve logistical issues and ensure smooth execution.
- Monitor project costs, approve or coordinate service orders, track expenses, and help maintain project profitability.
- Communicate project updates, deadlines, and potential challenges to clients and internal stakeholders.
- Troubleshoot show-site issues, last-minute changes, and unexpected logistical challenges while maintaining a high level of client service.
- Ensure all post-show activities are completed, including dismantle, outbound shipping, freight reconciliation, and project closeout.
- Identify opportunities to improve processes, service delivery, and overall client experience.
Qualifications
- 3+ years of Project Management experience within the trade show, convention, event, or exhibition services industry.
- Strong understanding of trade show operations, exhibitor services, general contractor services, and show-site logistics.
- Experience coordinating shipping, material handling, labor, installation and dismantle, and other show-related services.
- Familiarity with exhibitor manuals, show regulations, advance warehouse and direct-to-show shipping procedures, and convention center requirements.
- Experience working with general contractors, show organizers, convention centers, freight providers, and third-party vendors.
- Ability to manage multiple projects, shows, deadlines, and budgets simultaneously.
- Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, and client service skills.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing priorities and show-site demands.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and project management tools.
- Willingness to travel to trade shows or client events as needed.
What’s Offered
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k).
- Paid time off and company holidays.
- Opportunity to work with a variety of clients, exhibitors, and major industry events.
- A collaborative team environment with exposure to all aspects of trade show operations and execution.
- Opportunity for professional growth within an established organization.
How to Apply
If you have a background in project management, exhibitor services, trade show operations, or event logistics, we’d love to hear from you!
Please submit your resume to Amanda Roomey, Director of Visual Communications & Branded Environments, at amanda@metroseekcorp.com with the subject line Project Manager – Trade Show Services – Milwaukee.
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