A foreword from our CEO, Kate O’Loughlin | Women’s History Month is a moment to celebrate progress, and to recognise the work still ahead. At SuperAwesome, I’m continually inspired by the women who are redefining what leadership in tech looks like, and I’m happy to introduce just a few of them over the coming weeks in a series of blog posts for WHM. By sharing their stories, we want to encourage young women considering careers in technology to know this: your perspective matters, your voice belongs here, and your leadership is needed. The next generation of innovators is watching. Let’s show them what’s possible.
This Women’s History Month, we’re shining a light on some of the amazing female leaders at SuperAwesome, including Kristina Hahl, one of our Business Development Directors in charge of the DACH, Nordic, and CEEMEA regions. Kristina has been with us for over 6 years and brings more than 20 years of experience in digital media and marketing. She is known for connecting client needs with strategic opportunities and delivering impactful youth media solutions whilst championing a safer digital ecosystem.
Can you describe your role at SuperAwesome?
As Country Manager for DACH, NOR, and CEEMEA at SuperAwesome, I lead our strategic growth across these diverse markets. My role encompasses building and nurturing relationships with key clients in the toys, entertainment and other sectors, while ensuring we deliver youth-safe digital solutions that comply with the highest privacy standards for them. I work closely with cross-functional teams to develop market-specific strategies, drive revenue growth, and position SuperAwesome as the trusted partner for brands looking to engage with kids, teens, and families responsibly. Every day, I’m passionate about being part of creating a safer digital world for young audiences while helping our clients achieve their marketing objectives.
The 2026 theme highlights that when women thrive, everyone rises. How do you use collaboration to work through problems that might otherwise seem impossible to tackle alone?
Collaboration is at the heart of everything I do. In the complex landscape of digital media marketing and gaming solutions, especially when navigating multiple markets with different regulations and cultural nuances, no single person has all the answers. I collaborate with diverse teams globally where every voice is valued and heard. When facing seemingly impossible challenges – whether it’s entering a new market or solving a client’s unique needs – I love bringing together colleagues from different departments, backgrounds, and expertise levels. This collective intelligence approach not only leads to more innovative solutions but also creates an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute. I’ve learned that the best breakthroughs happen when we create psychological safety, encourage healthy debate, and celebrate both successes and learning moments together.
Have there been people who advocated for or sponsored you in your career? How did they impact your journey?
Oh yes! I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had amazing mentors throughout my career – and I still have them today. These advocates believed in me every step of the way, even when I doubted myself. Their unwavering confidence gave me the courage to consistently step out of my comfort zone and achieve results I never thought possible. They didn’t just offer advice; they opened doors, made introductions, and championed my work. One mentor in particular taught me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers – it’s about asking the right questions and empowering others. Their impact extends beyond my professional growth; they shaped how I now mentor others, ensuring I pay forward the support I received.
What are some challenges you have faced as a female leader, and how do you overcome them?
One challenge has been navigating rooms where women were the minority, particularly in media sectors. There have been moments where my ideas were overlooked until echoed by a male colleague, or where I’ve had to work twice as hard to establish credibility. I’ve overcome these challenges by focusing on building strong relationships, consistently delivering exceptional results, and finding my authentic voice rather than trying to emulate traditional male leadership styles. I’ve also learned the power of building alliances with both women and men who value diversity and inclusion. Most importantly, I’ve stopped waiting for permission or validation to speak up – take calculated risks, and create opportunities rather than waiting for them. I also make it a priority to mentor other women and create the inclusive environment I wish I’d had earlier in my career.
What’s one work goal of yours for 2026? How do you plan to achieve it?
My primary goal for 2026 is to help establish SuperAwesome as the undisputed leader in youth-safe digital advertising across DACH by pioneering innovative and effective solutions, especially as the media landscape is changing. I’m also committed to staying ahead of evolving privacy regulations and positioning our solutions as not just compliant, but as the gold standard for responsible marketing to kids, teens and families. Success means not only hitting revenue targets but also being recognized as the go-to expert when brands think about engaging young audiences responsibly.
If you could give one bit of advice to the next generation of female leaders, what would it be?
Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready – that moment rarely comes. The most successful leaders I know, regardless of gender, are those who embrace uncertainty and view challenges as opportunities to learn rather than threats to their competence. Build your network intentionally, seek out sponsors (not just mentors), and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself – no one else will do it as effectively as you can. Most importantly, define success on your own terms rather than conforming to outdated leadership models. Bring your whole, authentic self to work, including your unique perspective as a woman. The qualities that might have been seen as weaknesses – empathy, collaboration, emotional intelligence – are actually superpowers in modern leadership. Trust yourself, support other women, and remember that your voice and vision matter.
