Craig Kezama: A Leader in Fuel Supply Chain Resilience
Craig Kezama’s leadership journey is a testament to the power of collaboration, experience, and adaptability. With over 38 years at Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL), Craig has earned a reputation as a trusted expert in transportation fuels logistics. Recently honored as the Canadian Fuels Association’s 2025 Committee Member of the Year, the recognition highlights not only his expertise but the critical role logistics professionals play in ensuring reliable fuel delivery—especially in times of crisis.
Craig’s career unfolded unexpectedly. Initially aspiring to be a teacher, what started as a temporary warehouse role at FCL during university turned into the foundation of a decades-long career in logistics. The opportunity to pursue further education while employed led him to shift his focus to business management, eventually leading to a full-time position in logistics with the company.
Over the years, he rose through the ranks, becoming a key player in FCL’s operations and a respected voice within the CFA’s National Distribution Committee (NDC).
A defining part of Craig’s career has been his steady leadership in emergencies. From the 2021 British Columbia floods to the 2024 pipeline closure and Alberta wildfires, he has played a central role in maintaining fuel supply under pressure.
“Each crisis was different,” he says, “but the key to success was leveraging the tools and collaboration we had developed. Industry-wide cooperation helped us find quick, effective solutions.”
For Craig, though, the objective has always gone beyond logistics.
“Behind every successful logistics response,” he notes, “is the goal of keeping communities supplied and ensuring our drivers who supply these communities can do it safely—even in the most difficult conditions.”
The 2021 BC floods were particularly challenging, jeopardizing fuel supplies to the region. Craig helped coordinate a rapid response that involved not just FCL and the NDC but also Transport Canada and government officials.
Beyond emergency response, Craig has championed efforts to improve the efficiency and safety of the fuel supply chain.
“One of my proudest contributions,” he shares, “has been helping to develop consistent loading and access procedures for drivers at fuel terminals—making operations safer and more environmentally responsible.”
Looking ahead, Craig sees technology and collaboration as key to the industry’s future. From GPS tracking to AI and sustainable fuels, he believes that innovation will drive resilience.
He also stresses the importance of supply chain redundancy: “It’s not just about surviving a disruption—it’s about having the ability to recover quickly.”
For Craig, this award is less about personal recognition and more about collective progress. “What’s most fulfilling is knowing my contributions have made a positive impact,” he reflects.
As the transportation fuels sector continues to evolve, Craig’s advice to the next generation is clear: success lies in collaboration and foresight.
“No matter the challenge, there’s always a solution—and the best way to find it is by working together,” he says.
His legacy of steady leadership and resilience in uncertain times sets a high bar for the future of fuel distribution.
