Drew Latham

Established and directed the company's Transportation Department, developing programs and policies that enhanced profitability and optimized logistical operations. Key initiatives included transitioning from a fully carrier-owned asset model to a company-owned trailer fleet with carrier-provided power units, and consolidating all logistics functions under Tour Strategy.

Managed all logistical aspects of equipment, merchandise, and personnel for Family Quest Entertainment touring units. Successfully reduced annual freight expenditures by 8-10% through the introduction of multiple new Third-Party Logistics (3PL) providers and the implementation of a competitive bidding process for freight movement.

Directed the procurement and cultivated relationships with core 3PL providers for the timely transport of critical freight. This encompassed quarterly pricing negotiations, establishment of communication protocols, and performance monitoring against Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to ensure consistent on-time delivery and pickup.

Managed the company's fleet of semi-trailers, motorcoaches, and light duty vehicles, including capital equipment acquisition, vetting and onboarding of third-party fleet maintenance providers, and ensuring compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations for all equipment and drivers.

Oversaw the budgetary management of all logistics-related expenses, encompassing freight, personnel transport, accommodation, and fleet maintenance/repairs.

Supervised five bus drivers, managing the entire employment lifecycle from initial interviewing and onboarding to ensuring daily DOT/FMCSA compliance. This included maintenance of Driver Qualification Files (DQFs), administration of drug and alcohol testing, and monitoring of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and daily logs. Directed the booking of accommodations and rental vehicle arrangements for the touring units, including price negotiation and contract management with travel management and rental car companies.

Participated in the strategic planning and oversight of exhibition operations, ensuring a flawless and distinguished guest experience.

Developed, maintained, and provided training to the operations management team regarding operational playbooks and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all operational sectors, including logistics, leading to enhanced operational and financial efficiencies.

Monitored and ensured productions consistently met or surpassed quality standards and customer satisfaction targets.

Contributed to the development and ongoing adherence to operating budgets, as necessary, to manage costs and achieve or exceed financial objectives and strategic plans.

Provided budget training and management to the Show management team for their respective areas, guaranteeing their continuous adherence to budgetary constraints.

Participated in weekly operational department management conference calls and reporting, and attended other interdepartmental meetings.

Organized training programs to educate personnel on standard operational procedures.

• Supervised and coordinated the setup and teardown processes for the show, which involved the management and organization of 15 trailers, ensuring all equipment and materials were properly installed and dismantled within the designated timeframe.
• Established positive and effective communication among unit staff and organization leadership, reducing miscommunications, and missed deadlines.
• Identified and resolved unauthorized, unsafe, or ineffective practices.
• Developed and implemented strategies to maximize customer satisfaction.
• Directed initiatives to improve work environment, company culture or overall business strategy.