Her Story
About Ariana
Ariana Bell serves as Proposal Strategy and Pursuit Specialist for Artificial Intelligence at CBIZ, having recently joined the firm to focus on the artificial intelligence service line under the technology umbrella. She brings over two and a half years of experience from RSM US LLP, where she advanced from Growth Support Proposal Specialist to Growth Support Specialist Senior. In that role she managed RFP response efforts, coordinated with subject matter experts, and led a large government proposal involving 45 to 48 experts while ensuring compliance and timely submissions resulting in a win. Earlier in her career she gained experience through internships in accounts payable and hospitality roles, including as a condominium supervisor, followed by a contract position in business development. Ariana earned her BBA in marketing from Texas State University after attending Texas Christian University from 2018 to 2020, where she studied economics, and she completed an MBA with a concentration in data analytics in September 2024. She holds multiple IBM certifications and a PowerPoint black belt certification. Her professional journey reflects a blend of project management, marketing, and client-focused skills developed across accounting and consulting environments.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ariana
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my spiritual journey and belief in God, my family, especially my mom and papa, discipline, delayed gratification, and always doing things to the best of my ability. Being real with myself and doing self-audits have helped me stay on track.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
When the going gets tough, the tough gets going. Can't is not in your vocabulary. Time doesn't wait on anyone.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Stay curious and learn the business behind the bid. Learn how the company makes money, understand what prospects actually need and are asking for, and learn how to communicate complex ideas clearly. Do not be afraid to take up space. Ask questions, speak up in rooms with senior leaders, and advocate for your ideas. You do not have to know everything before you contribute. You can learn as you go. With that said, please continue to learn and earn certifications in your field. There are a lot of free resources like LinkedIn Learning and other platforms that are at your disposal.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Bidding itself is competitive--positioning the company to win over other qualified companies. Professional services firms are trying to improve their competitive advantage in the market, frequently through mergers and acquisitions. Transitioning from a larger company with structured processes to a smaller one requires patience and adaptation as processes develop. On the other hand, if you are at a smaller company joining a larger one, there will definitely be a learning curve.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Wisdom, relationships, achievement, balance and freedom.
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