Bria Newman, Operations Manager on Influential Women
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Influential Woman · Operations logistics

Bria Newman

Operations Manager, GEODIS

Columbus, OH 43219

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree University of Cincinnati – Bachelor of Applied Science, Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies, minor in Psychology Degree Cincinnati State – Associate of Business Management, Business Administration, Management and Operations, minor in Arts and Science

Her Story

About Bria

Bria Newman is an operations logistics professional with nine years of experience spanning freight brokerage, dispatching, and fleet operations management. Her career path began with a fashion design venture she launched shortly after high school, an entrepreneurial start that later shaped her transition into logistics through a dispatching role she found fulfilling for its emphasis on problem-solving and leadership. Following a layoff during the pandemic, she moved into freight brokerage, where she expanded her professional network and steadily opened the door to new opportunities, eventually advancing into fleet operations management at A.P. Moller - Maersk before moving on to operations management roles at AIT Worldwide Logistics and, most recently, GEODIS.

Academically, Newman holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies with a minor in Psychology from the University of Cincinnati, along with an Associate of Business Management from Cincinnati State, where she also minored in Arts and Science. Though her educational foundation was rooted in a pre-med track, she found her true calling in operations and freight management, applying the analytical rigor and discipline from her studies to a fast-paced logistics career. Throughout her professional journey, she has led large teams, implemented route optimization strategies, and driven measurable improvements in delivery accuracy and safety performance.

What distinguishes Newman most is the mindset she brings to her work: a competitive drive, a goal-oriented outlook, and a strong sense of accountability shaped by her entrepreneurial roots. She leads with a transparent, relatable style often described as a "big sister" approach, and she places high value on respect, integrity, and remaining coachable in the face of feedback. As a woman in a historically male-dominated field, she is a vocal advocate for authenticity and confidence, encouraging other women to pursue leadership and recognize their capacity to succeed in logistics and 3PL.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Bria

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to my competitive nature, goal-oriented mindset, and strong work ethic. When I set a goal, I am determined to see it through. My entrepreneurial background has also taught me to take initiative, work hard, collaborate effectively, and maintain a strong desire to win and succeed.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice I've received is to get out of my own head and remain coachable. I've learned not to be afraid to ask for or accept help, especially after transitioning from entrepreneurship into an environment where I had leadership above me. I try to stay open to feedback and willing to learn, understanding that constructive guidance is meant to help me grow rather than something to take personally.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I encourage young women entering this industry to be themselves and never be afraid to show up authentically. While logistics and 3PL have traditionally been male-dominated fields, I'm proud to see more women entering the space. I believe women are fully capable of succeeding, leading, and making their mark in this industry.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

I see strong opportunities for professional growth and advancement within logistics, though some of those opportunities are located outside my immediate area. One of my biggest challenges is maintaining a healthy work-life balance, as the logistics industry can be demanding and time-consuming, making it easy to become consumed by work.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Respect is one of my strongest core values, both professionally and personally. I believe you don't have to like everyone, but you should always treat people with respect. To me, respect connects to other important values such as integrity, character, and how I carry myself.

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