Kristin Sullivan

I attribute my success to not being afraid to dive in and taking on projects that I'm not quite familiar with, but being willing to learn. I've always had the mindset that if someone else can do it, I can do it as well, and I have ran with that throughout the span of my career. When something seems complicated, I remind myself there has to be a way for this to be accomplished. I attribute my ability to adapt in any environment to past experiences and being willing to take chances.

The best career advice I ever received came from my first hotel manager when I was getting into the business. He looked at me and said that a few months earlier, he wouldn't have hired me because he would have thought I could have done better than working at that lower-end hotel. But with the direction they were going after being bought by new owners, he felt I would be a good fit to assist them in achieving their set goals. He really nurtured me during my time there and was very supportive, willing to teach me anything I wanted to learn. That experience taught me the value of having someone believe in your potential and invest in your growth.

I would say it is absolutely possible, but know that the field is very busy with a lot happening all at the same time. Don't be discouraged. When something seems complicated, remember that someone has already done this at some point, so there has to be a way for it to be accomplished. I would encourage you wholeheartedly to take risk. In my company, we're transporting goods from Spain, dealing with containers, vessels, warehouses, transporting, trucking, and now tariffs. We deal with frozen foods that are temperature regulated, cookie doughs and breads with strict expirations, ingredients, and allergens - all happening at the same time. I would encourage them to stick with it and let them know it can be done. They can do it.

One of the biggest challenges we're facing right now is dealing with tariffs, which has definitely thrown a curveball for our industry in particular. Although difficult to navigate, with strategic planning and loads or organization, we have been able to develop internal processes that have allowed us to take on this new task. Beyond that, the logistics field involves so many moving parts all happening at the same time, which makes it a very complex business to be in. It requires a large team all working together to achieve one goal....or in some cases, several goals at one time.

What's most important to me is working in a positive and uplifting environment. I am consistently impressed with the management team at Cortina Foods - they are always positive, encouraging and available when needed. It's been a joy to be with them. They have built and continue to grow an amazing team. Having that kind of supportive atmosphere where I can learn and grow is incredibly valuable to me. I also value being part of a team that believes in me and invests in my future development. They have a vision for me which reminds me that I am seen and not just a number.