LEADERSHIP TEAM

Embodiment of Our Core Values

Lazer Logistics’ leaders are the living embodiment of our core values, exemplifying them in every action they take. Their drive to achieve is palpable, as they set ambitious goals and work tirelessly to surpass them, inspiring the entire team to reach for greatness.

In keeping with the value of “We keep each other safe,” these leaders foster an environment where safety is paramount. They navigate challenges with unwavering determination, adapting strategies and maintaining optimism even in the face of adversity. Lazer’s leaders also serve as mentors, nurturing the growth of team members through support and guidance.

The familial bond these leaders cultivate is profound. They foster a sense of belonging where every team member is valued. In their actions, these leaders demonstrate that at Lazer Logistics, being part of the team means being part of a tight-knit family, united by shared goals and values.

Adam Newsome is the CEO and oversees all facets of Lazer Logistics. As one of the founders of Lazer in 1996, he played a crucial role in establishing the values embedded in the organization today. His latest passion projects for the company included revitalizing company culture and improving Lazer’s environmental impact through tasks like deploying electric trucks.

After graduating from Law School at the University of Tennessee, Adam spent three years working as a lawyer and successfully building relationships at a private practice firm. He returned to Lazer to fill the role of President in 2003. During his tenure in Lazer leadership, the company has grown from 100 employees to more than 5,600.

Adam was named Chief Operating Officer in 2012 and CEO in ’14. He has helped oversee the growth of the business into the leading North American logistics company focused on transitioning goods between primary modes of transportation.

Bob brings a wealth of experience from his years at PepsiCo, working across the commercial, supply chain, and operations divisions. He has held senior leadership positions at various organizations, optimizing logistics and supply chain operations on an enterprise level. Most recently, Bob served as Regional President at Sysco Foods, where he was instrumental in driving regional success.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob is excited to relocate to the Atlanta area with his wife, Lisa. They have three children: their daughter Bethany and identical twin boys Joshua and Justin.

Phil Newsome serves as COO and oversees Lazer Logistics’ operations throughout North America. He has 36 years of logistics experience, from dispatcher and owner of MDS Trucking and Logistics to his current role as COO. Phil joined Lazer in 2011 as VP of Operations and was promoted to COO in ’14.

Phil graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science and has a specialized ANG certification. He has been focused on developing and delivering business services and solutions, providing outstanding client service, and driving profitable revenue growth.

His experience with freight management and strategic partnerships has enabled Phil to effectively lead Lazer Logistics’ expansion in key areas across North America.

He graduated Cum Laude from Queens College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and information systems. He has expertise in finance, FP&A, budgeting and forecasting, financial reporting, accounting, treasury, tax, pricing, procurement, and shared services.

Scott is proud to lead transformations to highly successful, innovative, and employee-passionate companies. In line with one of Lazer’s core values – our leaders serve and develop our people – he has established a track record of mentoring employees to be part of high-performing and engaged teams.

As a strategic financial partner to CEOs and executive teams, Scott has provided valued insight on reporting, actioning KPIs, and key initiatives throughout his career. He is adept at streamlining processes to ensure consistency globally.

Scott and his wife, Sherri, also enjoy traveling to experience other cultures and lifestyles. He is an avid runner who actively participates in their three children’s sporting events.

Melanie Sandlin joined Lazer Logistics in 2023 as Chief Information Officer, overseeing a transformation of Lazer’s technology landscape.

Melanie has consistently excelled in technical leadership roles over the last 24 years, spearheading information technology initiatives at major manufacturing companies. Her ability to inspire and motivate teams to deliver results while simplifying complex challenges has been a hallmark of her leadership style.

Melanie’s most recent role was as the Head of IT for the Americas Region at Allegion, where she made significant contributions to the organization’s technological advancement. Before that, she successfully led and orchestrated major digital transformations at Cummins, highlighting her expertise in shaping IT strategies and delivering business value.

Melanie obtained her Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Purdue University and her Master’s in Business Administration from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business.

Sheryl Franklin is the Chief Commercial Officer at Lazer Logistics, overseeing the company’s Sales, Marketing, and Solutions organizations. Her journey with Lazer began in 2022 when she joined as Vice President of Global Logistics Services and played a pivotal role in establishing the groundwork for Lazer’s expanded, end-to-end business service offerings within the newly formed Lazer Logistics umbrella. Sheryl brings a wealth of expertise in go-to-market strategy. She is well known as a visionary leader who excels in building diverse, high-performing teams and guiding growth, rendering her an indispensable asset to our team.

Throughout her career, Sheryl has demonstrated proficiency in implementing strategic initiatives to accomplish business objectives within her previous executive roles at UPS, XPO, and Staples Business Advantage.  She has also served her community as a Director for the Atlanta Fire and Rescue Board, Chairman of Women’s Leadership BRG, and various charitable projects.

Sheryl is a Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi graduate with a B.A. in Business Administration and Management. She is committed to continuous professional growth and completed the Executive Perspectives Program at The Goizueta Business School, Emory University.

Nick Hannigan is the Chief Strategy Officer responsible for mergers and acquisitions and the strategic evaluation and transformation of Lazer Logistics. He joined Lazer in February 2021 as EVP of Corporate Development and was promoted to Chief Commercial Officer in August of that year, leading Lazer’s exponential growth during the past few years.

After graduating from the University of Chicago with a BA in economics, Nick was a strategy consultant with a boutique firm in Chicago and participated in a highly competitive management development program. In 2007, he launched his career in Transportation and Logistics. He held various leadership roles at Echo Global Logistics and Hub Group, including VP of Corporate Development and EVP of OTR Brokerage.

His unique combination of early-stage and large-scale company experiences in operations, sales, and corporate development supports his leadership skills and growth agility mindset.

Candice Mirasol is the Chief People Officer and is responsible for leading all aspects of Lazer’s People Operations pillar, including HR, Recruiting and Talent Acquisition, Culture and Engagement, Learning and Development, and Compensation and Total Rewards. Candice has been a champion for Lazer’s people for nearly 10 years, wearing many hats in HR to help build, strengthen, and further develop talent that has supported Lazer’s growth from 1,800 people when she joined in 2014 to over 5,600 people.

Before joining Lazer, Candice had 13 years of experience in HR and administrative leadership roles in manpower, retail, and shipping companies, which honed her people, leadership, and process skills. Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Candice graduated with a double degree in BS Psychology and AB Guidance and Counseling and received a Master’s in Industrial and Organization Psychology.

Her long tenure with Lazer, along with the combination of her transformation and servant leadership style, work to inspire, motivate, and shift the mindset of the People Operations pillar from merely focusing on daily routine operations to a more profound, genuine desire to contribute and create something better for all employees at Lazer.

Blaine has a unique background that blends tech and legal skills. He earned a J.D. with a concentration in intellectual property law from Indiana University and an M.S. in computer and information sciences from Purdue University. He is passionate about impactful, quality software products, whether he’s developing them or providing guidance for their development, filing patents for clients, or providing legal product/privacy counsel.

Blaine enjoys learning from diverse perspectives and broadening his horizons. He has worked with many people from different fields and backgrounds, allowing him to expand his knowledge base. He is an active member of his local community, mentoring startups, teaching veterans transitioning out of the military and getting their MBA, and hosting charity work at a CrossFit gym he co-owns.