Gorgeous Girls In Supply Chain: Katherine Kruger
Welcome to our series celebrating the incredible women in Supply Chain and Logistics! In a traditionally male-dominated field, it's important to shine a light on the inspiring women who are making a significant impact. Through a mix of insightful and fun questions, we’ll explore their journeys, challenges, and successes. While we acknowledge the contributions of everyone in this industry, this series aims to elevate the voices and stories of women who often get missed. Time for Katherine Kruger’s unique story.
KATHERINE KRUGER
I can’t quite remember who introduced me to Katherine, but I do remember how incredible she was from the moment we connected. Confident, driven, and brimming with passion, Katherine has built Kanalink, a niche business serving a niche industry, in just under four years—an impressive feat by any standard. What sets Katherine apart is her ability to build genuine, lasting relationships with both customers and carriers. She doesn’t just work in the industry—she takes the time to truly understand its unique challenges and the people behind them.
What is your current role and company?
CEO / Director - Kanalink Ltd.
How did you end up in the world of supply chain?
I started back in high school working in packaging and shipping - from there I changed my career in law enforcement to an opportunity to work at Toronto Pearson Airport. Since the beginning of legalization I have been working in Cannabis Logistics and I wouldn't change it for any other job. Being a part of such a niche and new industry has been the most challenging and rewarding career decision as well as being a business owner. The entrepreneur life is hard as well as a young female in the supply chain industry but also rewarding in so many ways.
What is your favourite part of your work day?
Talking with clients whether current or new ones. I always get excited when clients call me with a new shipment especially when it may be their fist time shipping. Some people may find logistics to be boring but I honestly love the everyday problem-solving. Logistics is like the central nervous system of the global economy, where every decision impacts the flow of goods, people, and services. The Cannabis industry is nothing short of that where new innovations and markets are constantly opening up with new opportunities and I love being a part of that.
What is the least favourite part of your work day?
Probably the amount of emails I receive in a day! Anyone that knows me knows - just call me. I would rather talk on the phone than text. I find talking on the phone is just more personal than email.
What is a systemic issue in your part of the supply chain that concerns you currently?
The amount of carriers or brokers in the supply chain that do not adhere to good business practice and/or lack communication. In the Cannabis industry it's important to remember that this is a time and temperature sensitive commodity which also needs a certain amount of communication and attention. Having a innovative tech platform that provides an enhanced customer experience is needed especially in this industry.
How would you address it if you had the power, money, or influence?
I would love to work with a tech company on creating a TMS software that is dedicated to Canadian Brokers for white glove service.
Logistics is nothing short of its faults - delays, shortages, miscommunications. I would want to create a software that allows other industry's in the medical or Cannabis space to leverage data based on their PO's and products with an end-to-end tracking platform that offers full visibility of their shipments and orders.
What is one piece of advice you have for young women entering your field?
For young women entering logistics as entrepreneurs my advice is to embrace your unique perspective as a strength and build your network with people that align with your goals. The logistics industry has traditionally been male-dominated, but this means there are often untapped opportunities for innovation and fresh approaches. Use your unique experiences and insights to then identify inefficiencies or unmet needs in the market. Some days may be hard and seem impossible - but don't give up. Nothing is more expensive than a missed opportunity.
What are your top 3 podcasts? (do not have to be industry related)
Who are your top 5 women in supply chain to follow on LinkedIn?
How do you deal with creeps you encounter in your work day?
I don't! Maybe being a security guard for almost a decade has taught me certain skills on how to avoid these encounters but also just keep your head up - speak your mind and be resilient.
What is your favourite way to unwind?
Long distance running. I recently got back into running this year and I would love to do a half marathon come 2025.
Taking my two dogs for a walk without my phone - just being able to separate myself from work for a period of the day really helps me to unwind.
What have you recently changed your mind about?
For a long time, I approached tasks and goals with an emphasis on optimizing every detail, aiming for the "best" possible outcome. But I’ve come to understand that pursuing this idea of "perfection" can sometimes lead to burnout or missed opportunities.
Balance—between effort and rest, work and relationships, ambition and contentment—seems to create a more sustainable and fulfilling life. This change in mindset emphasizes growth and progress over an unattainable ideal.
Must haves to get you thru the day?
Coffee - always
Long walks with my dogs
Music always in the background
To-do lists - constantly to keep my day organized
Social media for Katherine:
