Kristof De Smedt is a seasoned strategic business leader with more than 25 years experience, having served within multiple pharma companies, supporting the worldwide distribution of lifesaving healthcare and lifescience products. In  2020, he proudly joined  Cold Chain Technologies LLC, headquartered in Franklin, MA. On 1st October, 2025, after the recent strategic acquisitions of Tower Cold Chain and Global Cold Chain Solutions, he was promoted to Global Market Segment Director Airlines and Logistic Providers. In this role, he is responsible for accelerating growth with CCT’s full slate of Palletsolutions within this industry segment globally.

What was your dream job as a child? 

I wanted to become a tour guide.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the industry? 

Adaptability towards more sustainable solutions and agility navigating through turbulent economic times.

What’s one phrase you secretly dislike? 

Think outside the box. At CCT we’re actually interested what’s inside the box – to ensure the right solution can be offered to our clients.

Window or aisle seat? 

Window seat. I love the view at sunrise or sunset.

What’s the best business lesson you’ve learned the hard way?

Not to trust everyone

Which three items would you bring to a desert island?  

A good glass of wine, a good book and sunglasses.

Tea or coffee? 

Coffee – preferably a strong espresso to wake up.

What’s your guilty pleasure TV show or movie? 

Pretty woman.

What’s the most exciting place you’ve visited for work? 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

If you could introduce one new regulation in air cargo, what would it be?  

Mandatory use of Tyvek thermal blankets to protect Tarmac exposure.

What’s your go-to karaoke song? 

Bohemian Rapsody.

Describe your job in three words?

Challenging, exciting and global.

What’s your hidden talent? 

Gardening.

If you could instantly master one skill, what would it be? 

Playing the guitar.

What’s something on your bucket list? 

Want to go hiking in Patagonia (Chile).

What’s the best airport in the world, and why? 

Abu Dhabi – Excellent streamlined transit and modern facilities.

If air cargo had a mascot, what would it be? 

Cheetah – Known for their speed, precision and adaptability to change.

How did you get into airfreight/logistics?

Got intrigued by the industry after my traineeship at Brussels Airport building my thesis.

What quote has most resonated with you? 

Do what you love and love what you do.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? 

Always be kind to people, and be the change you want to see around you.

What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done? 

Hiking/Ski initiation in the Carpatian mountains.

If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would it be and why? 

My two boys and my wife.

What’s something we wouldn’t know about you from your CV? 

I hold a black belt in Karate-Jitsu.

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