In this fifth episode of The Heels Forward Podcast, hosted by Francesca Vanthielen, we sit down with Kirsten Carlier, CEO of DHL Aviation, to talk about resilience, leadership, and finding strength in unexpected places. From a childhood shaped by personal challenges to leading one of Europe’s busiest air cargo hubs, Kirsten’s journey is one of quiet power, unwavering focus, and belief in people.
From fear of flying to CEO of DHL Aviation
It’s hard to imagine that the woman overseeing one of the most time-sensitive branches of DHL once had a fear of flying. “I never imagined I’d end up in aviation,” she admits. Yet today, Kirsten leads DHL Aviation Belgium at Brussels Airport – a key hub in DHL’s European network – with night operations, high-pressure logistics, and a sharp focus on life-saving deliveries.
Her background in HR shapes her leadership philosophy. “Motivated people are our first strategic pillar,” she says. Her rise to CEO began with expressing interest in general management, but it was encouragement from others that gave her the final push. Now, she pays it forward by supporting other women and young talent who may need that same nudge.
Leadership, logistics, and night work
At DHL Aviation, operations run through the night. From critical pharma shipments to medical devices tailored for next-day surgeries, precision is non-negotiable. “If we can’t fly at night, we’ll have to leave Belgium,” she says plainly, underlining how crucial nighttime flights are for global connectivity.
Running such an operation means leading with flexibility, empathy, and presence. “I often work at night myself,” Kirsten shares. “The airport has a different energy after dark.” Her leadership style is grounded in servant leadership – being close to the team, solving problems together, and building a culture of ownership.
To see that dynamic in action, a behind-the-scenes video was recently recorded at DHL Aviation’s state-of-the-art facility at Brussels Airport. It shows the impressive coordination of people, processes, and technology that keep time-critical shipments moving around the world – often within just a few hours.
A woman in a man’s world
Kirsten remains the only woman worldwide leading a DHL hub in aviation logistics – a sector still heavily male-dominated. She has faced assumptions in meetings (“Are you taking the minutes?”), but uses such moments as opportunities to make an impression. Her message to other women? “Believe in yourself. Take that step. Say yes.”
In a thoughtful exchange with Montea’s Martine de Groene, Kirsten shares her vision for female solidarity: “We need communities where women speak honestly with one another. We are often our own biggest obstacle.”
* Kirsten with her best friend Kathleen
The personal side of leadership
Beyond the boardroom, Kirsten offers a glimpse into the people who anchor her. She talks about Kathleen, her best friend since kindergarten – someone who grounds her with practical wisdom and emotional honesty. “She knows me through and through. When I lose sight of what fits me, she’s the one who holds up the mirror.”
As a mother of two sons, Kirsten also shares how family life shapes her perspective. “I only have boys, so going on a girls’ trip with Kathleen and her daughters is something I truly cherish.”
One of the most touching moments in the episode comes when she discusses a framed pen drawing of herself and her father – a gift from her mother after he passed away. Though her father's battle with addiction deeply impacted her teenage years, the drawing reminds her of the warm early bond they shared. “It’s a way to remember the good moments too. Addiction is something that happens to a person – not who they are.”
* Kirsten’s two sons when they were younger
Why listen to this episode?
Kirsten’s story is a compelling blend of vulnerability and strength. Her reflections on leadership, gender dynamics, mental health, and social responsibility are deeply human – and incredibly relevant for anyone leading teams, managing change, or pushing for equity in traditionally male-dominated fields.
This 40-minute episode is more than a conversation – it’s an inspiring reminder that powerful leadership doesn’t always shout. Sometimes, it simply shows up, listens well, and builds something stronger for those around it.
* Pen drawing of Kirsten and her father
Listen to the full Dutch-language episode or watch the vodcast with English subtitles.
