Doug Waggoner: Leader, Professional, and Innovator

As Chief Executive Officer at Echo Global Logistics, Doug Waggoner covers a lot of ground. Doug has served as CEO since December 2006 and was a board member from February 2008 until the company turned private in 2021.

Under Doug's direction, Echo has diversified its offerings through more than 20 acquisitions that allow it to offer specialized services such as Intermodal, Temperature-Controlled, Expedited, Drop-Trailer, Cross-Border, and Hazmat shipping, creating a one-stop, transportation management shop. With Doug’s leadership, the company also expanded its technology focus, rolling out mobile applications and AI-driven innovations to drive improvements in cost, efficiency, reliability, and service to benefit both shippers and carriers. Essentially, through Doug’s guidance, Echo went from an industry rookie to a multi-billion-dollar company, providing an essential need for clients and carriers in the logistics space.

Over the course of his more than four-decades long career in transportation and logistics, Doug has worked in multiple areas of the industry, which has given him the background needed to be successful, including when he joined Echo in its first year as President and CEO. Since that time, he has shared his knowledge and influence in several ways. For instance, Doug is a regular speaker at industry events for such organizations as Armstrong and Associates, JOC, FreightWaves, CSCMP, Eye for Transport, and others. He is also a member of Northwestern University’s Transportation Center, where he has delivered lectures to industry professionals and the next generation of transportation leaders. Doug often contributes to industry publications through byline articles and is sought out for his perspective on freight trends and the industry. He also gives back to the community, which brings exposure to the industry to those that may not be aware of its essential function.

Doug is a staunch advocate for innovation. His leadership skills over the course of his extensive career allow him to do the work needed to continue to educate himself on all aspects of the supply chain and logistics industry that many experts are unfamiliar with.

Doug is also an experienced stunt plane pilot!