Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Other Boardmemberships
Personal Information
Affiliations
Languages
Work Availability
Work Preference
Accomplishments
Interests
Quote
Timeline
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Ahmed Kerem Kapancı

Ahmed Kerem Kapancı

Managing Partner / Board Member / C-Level Executive
Istanbul,Sarıyer

Summary

Results-driven C-Level Executive & Board Member adept at building and leading high-performance teams. Decisive leader with a strong background in strategic planning, financial management and team development with a resilient and forward-thinking approach. Skilled in problem-solving and communication with good understanding of business principles, project management, business development and stakeholder relations. Pragmatic professional in identifying opportunities and implementing practical business strategies with commitment to staying informed about latest trends, technologies and best practices. Ready to bring 27 years of experience to new role.

Overview

27
27
years of professional experience

Work History

Country Representative

Sterling Atlantic
03.2024 - Current
  • Sterling Atlantic is a family office that co-invests in undervalued growth companies that have the opportunity for Blue Ocean exponential expansions of their customer and shareholder bases.
  • Developed strategic plans outlining country-specific goals, objectives, and action steps aligned with the organization''s mission and vision.
  • Adapted global initiatives to local contexts, ensuring cultural sensitivity and relevance in all investment efforts.
  • Coordinated closely with headquarters staff to provide timely updates on project progress, challenges, and successes.
  • Led a diverse team of professionals in executing projects aimed at addressing key client needs and priorities.

Board Member

Turk.net
02.2021 - Current
  • Founded in 1996, TurkNet is Turkey's most powerful independent next generation telecom operator providing access, fixed telephone, private virtual network, data center, cloud computing and hosting services to meet the communication needs of individuals and businesses in the telecom market. TurkNet, one of Turkey's 100 largest IT companies, is always expanding its local, national and international connections to offer innovative products; large-scale broadband and fiber-based infrastructure investments.
  • Worked on listing the Company at Borsa Istanbul, formerly known as Istanbul Stock Exchange.
  • Reviewed financial reports, budgets, and audit results to monitor the organization''s fiscal health.
  • Assisted with development of organizational budgets and resource allocation plans.
  • Collaborated with other board members to develop and execute programs and initiatives to advance organizational mission.
  • Provided guidance and leadership on strategic planning initiatives and organizational development.
  • Supported strategic objectives, guiding formation of key alliance partnerships.
  • Collaborated with legal, accounting and other professional teams to review and maintain compliance with regulations.
  • Analyzed industry trends and tracked competitor activities to inform decision making.

Advisory Board Member

Re-Pie Asset Management
08.2020 - Current
  • Founded in 2015, Re-Pie Asset Management is the first and largest alternative asset management company, where the main areas of activity include venture capital mutual funds, real estate mutual funds, securities mutual funds, pension funds and private asset management.
  • Evaluated potential mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships to support overall strategic goals and objectives.
  • Assisted in the development of long-term business strategies, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability.
  • Strengthened ties with community leaders through attendance at local events representing the organization as an ambassador.
  • Supported company''s pursuit of innovation by staying informed on emerging technologies, market trends, and competitive landscape analysis.
  • Increased Advisory Board effectiveness by providing strategic guidance and insight into industry trends.
  • Established strong relationships with key stakeholders to foster collaboration and promote a shared vision for the organization''s future success.
  • Participated in regular board meetings to provide constructive feedback on proposed projects or plans that aligned with the organization''s mission statement.
  • Analyzed industry trends and tracked competitor activities to inform decision making.

Managing Partner

Focus Global Project
9 2016 - Current
  • FGP is an independent boutique advisory firm based in Istanbul with a focus on M&A, financing and international business.
  • As Founder and Managing Partner of Focus Global Project, advised its Clients on their investments, acquisitions and establishment of new businesses ranging from 100K USD to 100mn USD, in Turkey, Gulf Region, Europe, North America and Asia Pacific.
  • Spearheaded successful client engagements resulting in repeat business and positive referrals from satisfied clients.
  • Built strong networks with key stakeholders both internally and externally to support business growth objectives.
  • Optimized resource allocation, reducing operational costs while maintaining service quality standards.
  • Increased client base by implementing effective marketing strategies and fostering long-term relationships.

Board Member - Chair

A1 Portfolio Management Inc.
3 2022 - 8 2024
  • A1 is one of the largest PMS Companies in Turkey responsible for making investment decisions and carrying out investment activities on behalf of vested individuals or institutions.
  • Developed long-term strategic plans to guide organizational growth and success.
  • Devised and presented business plans and forecasts to board of directors.
  • Researched potential local, regional, and national funders and assisted in relationship building.
  • Represented organization at industry conferences and events.
  • Analyzed industry trends and tracked competitor activities to inform decision making.

Co-Founder & Board Member

Hop Health Tourism
04.2022 - 04.2024
  • Hop Health is a digitalized health platform developed to bring doctors and patients together from around the world, supported by AI technology.
  • As the Co-Founder and Board Member of Hop Health Tourism, succeeded in getting the Pre-Seed investment from both Corporate and individual investors.
  • Provided strategic direction for product development, resulting in high-quality offerings that resonated with customers'' needs and preferences.
  • Secured lucrative partnerships by establishing strong relationships with key industry players.
  • Evaluated market trends to identify emerging opportunities and inform strategic decision making.
  • Negotiated favorable terms with suppliers and vendors, significantly reducing operational expenses.
  • Prepared the Business Plan.
  • Established the Management Team.
  • Sold my shares and exited in April 2024.
  • Established foundational processes for business operations.

Board Member

Pardus Venture Capital Investment Trust
03.2022 - 11.2023
  • Pardus Venture Capital Investment Partnership is a Turkey-based public joint stock company with registered capital, which is established to issue its shares in order to operate the portfolio consisting of venture capital investments, capital market instruments and other assets and transactions to be determined by the Capital Markets Board, and can engage in other activities permitted by the capital market legislation. The Company's aim is to provide stable and high returns to investors by providing resources to companies and projects that have a return target above market conditions, have operational profitability and a realistic growth story.
  • Succeeded in taking the Company public within 6 months at Borsa Istanbul, formerly known as Istanbul Stock Exchange.
  • Served as advocate and ambassador for organization by fully engaging, identifying, and securing resources and partnerships to advance mission.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to drive organizational growth and development.
  • Researched potential local, regional, and national funders and assisted in relationship building.
  • Drove organizational growth by identifying and cultivating key partnerships.

CEO

Mineks Structured Finance Services
12.2016 - 08.2018
  • Mineks Structured Finance Services offers tailored financing solutions developed specially for the long-term financing needs of its clients. With its extensive knowledge and global experience, Mineks provides the best financing structure according to specific desires and constraints of its clients.
  • Led the Consortium of Advisors (McKinsey - World’s largest Management Consultancy Company - NewOak, Allen & Associates and Mineks) working for the Turkish Sovereign Wealth Fund (TWF) in order to raise 80 billion USD long-term Financing over 3 years.
  • Developed and led many projects in Turkey, the UK, Germany, Azerbaijan, Russia, Belarus, Georgia, etc. in the areas of Financing, Investment and M&A.
  • Managed partnerships and strategic business relationships by negotiating contract terms and handling conflicts.

Chief Operating Officer

Hergüner Bilgen Özeke Attorney Partnership
09.2015 - 09.2016
  • Hergüner Bilgen Özeke Attorney Partnership (“Hergüner”) is Turkey’s leading independent business law firm. Since its establishment in 1989, the firm provides legal guidance to its clients on all aspects of international business law and is known as the firm which brought the ‘full-service law firm’ concept to Turkey. The firm represents major multinational corporations, international financial institutions, agencies and other notable clientele in Corporate, Dispute Resolution & Commercial, and Finance & Projects areas.
  • Managed 50+ support staff and 100+ lawyers being responsible for Business Development & Business Affairs, Finance & Accounting, HR, IT and Knowledge Management.
  • Managed financial, operational and human resources to optimize business performance.
  • Oversaw day-to-day operations to keep organization running smoothly while meeting business goals.
  • Streamlined operations by implementing efficient processes and systems, leading to increased productivity and cost savings.
  • Formulated strategic plans aligning with overall company vision; setting achievable short and long-term goals to drive growth and profitability.
  • Enhanced company reputation by establishing strong relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders.
  • Mentored team members by sharing knowledge, offering guidance, and providing constructive feedback; fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the organization.
  • Negotiated contracts and agreements to secure favorable terms and maximize profits.
  • Identified and pursued business development opportunities to grow organization and increase revenue.
  • Guided teams through periods of significant change by providing clear communication and decisive leadership during transitions.

Deputy General Manager

Mineks International
03.2013 - 09.2015
  • Mineks International is a leading project management, business development and investment firm headquartered in Turkey with offices in the UK, Middle East and Africa. Mineks is originating and developing new business opportunities in mobile payments, banking payment solutions, digital and mobile security solutions, Internet infrastructure solutions, fixed and mobile operator mergers & acquisitions, etc. Mineks’ focus geographies are Turkey, MENA and CIS. Mineks invests both for its own account as well as for its clients.
  • Led the sale of the first Golf Club of Turkey, owned by Mineks International, to one of the largest conglomerates in Turkey.
  • Developed the project and signed the agreement between the largest Financial Services Company of Ireland and Mineks, making Mineks the exclusive Business Partner in the Region.
  • Developed the project between one of the most important Mobile Payment Platforms in the UK and Mineks.
  • Developed the project between one of the most important Digital Security Platforms and Mineks.
  • Developed the Project between a Company from Netherlands providing Prepaid Payment solutions to Mobile Operators and Mineks.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining focus on meeting key milestones.
  • Facilitated cross-functional collaboration to drive successful project completion within deadlines.

Country Manager

Mobile Marketing Association (MMA)
05.2011 - 09.2015
  • The MMA is the world’s leading global non-profit trade association comprised of more than 900 member companies, from nearly fifty countries around the world. Our members hail from every faction of the mobile marketing ecosystem including brand marketers, agencies, mobile technology platforms, media companies, operators and others. The MMA’s mission is to accelerate the transformation and innovation of marketing through mobile, driving business growth with closer and stronger consumer engagement.
  • Sold 20+ new memberships & Organized 20+ local events.
  • Organized the largest Mobile Marketing EMEA Forum of the MMA in the Region with 30+ international and local Keynote Speakers and Panels where 500+ Attendees participated and received great media coverage in the press.
  • Organized the first education program at Istanbul Technical University.
  • Collaborated cross-functionally with headquarters, regional and other teams nationally to maintain consistent message and experience.
  • Managed accounts to retain existing relationships and grow share of business.
  • Managed budgets, financial planning, and forecasting to optimize profitability for the country operations.
  • Established strong relationships with key industry players for business growth and expansion.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing client concerns promptly and effectively.
  • Managed cross-functional teams to ensure seamless operations and drive business objectives.
  • Achieved revenue targets through proactive client engagement strategies that fostered long-term relationships with customers.
  • Organized promotional events and interacted with community to increase sales volume.

Managing Partner & CEO

Focus Communications
11.2010 - 03.2013
  • Focus Communications is a boutique PR & Corporate Events Agency.
  • Increased the Revenue of the company by 300% yoy.
  • Sold services to all 3 Mobile Operators within the first 1.5 years (Turkcell, Vodafone and Avea)
  • Sold services to International & Multi-national organizations (Huawei, Mobile Marketing Association (MMA), Junior Chamber International (JCI) )
  • Spearheaded successful client engagements resulting in repeat business and positive referrals from satisfied clients.
  • Oversaw financial management of the firm, including budgeting, forecasting, and analysis, ensuring fiscal responsibility and profitability.

Managing Partner

TeknoMart
11.2009 - 11.2010
  • Teknomart, a subsidiary of Eko Group, is a Bulk Messaging (SMS & MMS) and Mobile Marketing Agency.
  • Increased the Mobile Marketing revenue of Teknomart by about 3.000 % (Three thousand percent) in 2010. (compared to 2009.)
  • Made Teknomart the Mobile Marketing Agency, Mobile Payment Solution Provider and Mobile Education Solution Provider of Turkcell
  • Developed 18 applications for Nokia’s OVI platform & Developed an E-Reader application for BlackBerry.
  • Built strong networks with key stakeholders both internally and externally to support business growth objectives.
  • Negotiated high-value contracts with clients, securing profitable partnerships for the company.
  • Increased client base by implementing effective marketing strategies and fostering long-term relationships.

Manager

Turkcell
04.2002 - 10.2009

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. (Turkcell), incorporated on October 5, 1993, is a provider of mobile services in Turkey. The Company provides mobile voice, Internet & services over its mobile communications network. Turkcell is a regional leader by being the market leader in five countries out of nine it operates in. Turkcell's shares have been traded on the Istanbul (IMKB) and New York Stock Exchanges (NYSE) since July 11, 2000, and it is the first and only Turkish company ever to be listed on the NYSE. Turkcell is the largest operator in Turkey and the 3rd largest operator in Europe with 35+ million customers.

4) Manager (Value Added Srvc. /Corp. Serv. /Partner Solutions Mgmt.)

Apr 2008 – Oct 2009

Key Achievements:

  • Reached and exceeded the 1 billion Corporate SMS threshold for the first time.
  • Reached and exceeded the 100.000 Fleet Management threshold for the first time.
  • Initiated and completed the development of Turkey’s first SaaS (Software as a Service) portal, where business software (such as ERP, CRM solutions) along with other Turkcell products and Services (such as Fleet Management, Bulk SMS, etc.) are sold to corporate clients (especially targeting SMEs) through a monthly fee business model. (www.istecozumler.com) This project has been the first step of Turkcell’s new strategy and corporate vision of entering new business areas other than GSM and becoming an ICT company rather than just being a GSM operator.
  • Launched a mobile application called "Turkcell Seyahat" (Turkcell Travel), which has been a first in the world. Turkcell Seyahat is a mobile travel assistant which enables customers plan and manage their travels easily on their mobile devices. (Turkcell Seyahat provides valuable real time, relevant travel information and makes it easy to plan and manage trips for the users.)

3) Manager (Sales / Trade Marketing / Retail Development)

Sep 2006 – Apr 2008

Key Achievements:

  • Exclusive Channel Renovation Project:
  • Developed the concept for Turkcell’s 1.000+ exclusive Retail Stores, prepared the design, including all of the modules within the store and the signage.
  • Led the renovation operation for all exclusive Retail Stores on the field. (Extras and Turkcell İletişim Merkezi stores) Completed the renovation of 600+ stores.
  • Led the project by coordinating 20+ external (design companies, construction companies, manufacturing companies, etc.) and 10+ internal parties (i.e. 150+ Turkcell employees from departments such as purchasing & contract management, marcom, legal, construction & real estate, marketing, value added services, etc.)
  • Flagship Project:
  • In order to reflect Turkcell’s brand image and sales / service strategies, developed the concept for Turkcell’s Flagship Stores, prepared the design for Turkcell’s largest Flagship on Bagdat Street (the 5th Avenue of Istanbul) and Kanyon Shopping Mall.

2) Manager (Sales /Cust. Relations/Cust. Process Improvement & Quality)

Jun 2005 – Sep 2006

Key Achievements:

  • Designed the customer processes in order to simplify the customer’s life throughout Turkcell & improved the processes with feedback coming from the customers, marketing and other related parties (In 2006, total cost savings from improved processes exceeded $6 million).
  • For the First time in the history of Turkcell, performed a cost and benefit analysis in order to determine the value added of each channel, as a result of which customers could be directed to more efficient channels (Activity Based Costing).

1) Team Member (Marketing / Strategic Planning)

Apr 2002 – Jun 2005

Key Achievements:

  • Led consultancy projects (such as preparing the strategies of Turkcell against Vodafone which was about to enter the Turkish market and preparation of the 5-year Strategic Plan of Turkcell) for the CEO & CMO.
  • Initiated a Finance project in order to transform the revenue budget from Excel to a Cognos based tool, which in turn led to better, safer, more accurate and more efficient budgeting process.

Associate Consultant

DiamondCluster International
09.2000 - 01.2002
  • Diamond Management & Technology Consultants was an independent management consulting firm founded in 1994, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois with satellite offices in Hartford, Connecticut, New York City, Washington DC, London, and Mumbai. It was acquired by the British firm, PwC in 2010.
  • Developed the Lobbying strategy and gave auction support for UMTS (3G) licensing for an incumbent mobile operator in Belgium resulting with the winning of the license.
  • Developed the Turn-around strategy for an incumbent operator in Slovenia, including strategy on new distribution channels (i.e. direct channels and Key Accounts) and new Product & Service offering resulting with a new brand identity.
  • Developed new market entry strategy for a large conglomerate in the energy industry in Turkey.
  • Provided advice, made recommendations and implemented problem-solving strategies when business needed to re-energize.
  • Developed effective improvement plans in alignment with goals and specifications.

Analyst

Bain & Company
08.1999 - 08.2000
  • One of the Big Three management consultancies, Bain & Company is an American company headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. The firm provides advice to public, private, and non-profit organizations.
  • Developed the market entry strategy, conducted market research, analysis and finally developed business strategies for an E-Commerce start-up (B2B online textile auction), which at the end of the project received US$ 10 million of seed financing from ICG (Internet Capital Group), resulting with operations all over Europe, with offices in the UK, Germany and Turkey.
  • Developed the market entry strategy, conducted market research and analysis for a large Turkish conglomerate resulting in an automobile portal which is currently one of the main portals in its category in Turkey.

Coordinator of the Group Companies

EKS F&B
06.1997 - 07.1998
  • EKS Gıda Ltd. was a family owned food-retailing business with four restaurants and cafes in Istanbul.
  • Doubled the net revenue in six months.
  • With this improvement and success, the Management decided not to close the brand and continue operations.
  • Coordinated and systemized cash flow analysis, liquidity management and human resources management and directed a team in charge of advertising, sales promotion, and public relations.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by responding promptly to inquiries and addressing concerns professionally.
  • Streamlined administrative processes, allowing for more efficient use of resources and better support for project teams.
  • Hired, managed, developed and trained staff, established and monitored goals, conducted performance reviews and administered salaries for staff.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Finance and International Business

Georgetown University
Washington, D.C.
9 1994 - 6 1997

Business Administration

University of Delaware
Newark, Delaware
01.1993 - 6 1994

High School Diploma -

St. Georg Austrian High School
Istanbul
9 1984 - 6 1992

Skills

Executive Leadership

Other Boardmemberships

  • Veganzone, Board Member, 04/2021, to date
  • BioPharma, Board Member - Chair, 06/2021, to date
  • Biobuluyo Inf. Tech. (a Real Estate Analytics Start Up), Board Member - Chair, 06/2021, to date
  • Edik Ventures, Board Member, 04/2023, 04/2024
  • Traddy Bear, Board Member - Chair, 06/2021, 03/2022
  • Tok BBQ Food & Beverage, Board Member - Vice Chair, 06/2021, 01/2023
  • Unication Education, Board Member, 04/2021, 04/2022

Personal Information

  • Date of Birth: 10/30/73
  • Nationality: Turkish and Portuguese
  • Marital Status: Married, 1 son

Affiliations

  • Chairman of Georgetown University Alumni Admissions Program (AAP) in Turkey
  • Board Member of Digital Development Association
  • Audit Committee Member of Turkish - Belgian – Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce
  • Audit Committee Member of Earth Foundation
  • Member of Propeller Club – Port of Istanbul
  • Member of Georgetown University Alumni Association
  • Member of Austrian High School Alumni Association

Languages

Turkish
Native language
English
Proficient
C2
German
Proficient
C2
French
Elementary
A2
Spanish
Beginner
A1

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Work Preference

Work Type

Full TimePart TimeContract Work

Work Location

On-SiteRemoteHybrid

Important To Me

Company CultureStock Options / Equity / Profit Sharing

Accomplishments

Established the Turkish Sovereign Wealth Fund.

Completed the M&A deal of a 100 million USD project in Indonesia.

Established the "first" Flagship stores and renovated 400+ franchise stores all over Turkey for Turkcell.

Interests

Traveling

Reading

Playing Basketball

Quote

If you always do what you always did, then you will always get what you always got.
Albert Einstein

Timeline

Country Representative

Sterling Atlantic
03.2024 - Current

Co-Founder & Board Member

Hop Health Tourism
04.2022 - 04.2024

Board Member

Pardus Venture Capital Investment Trust
03.2022 - 11.2023

Board Member

Turk.net
02.2021 - Current

Advisory Board Member

Re-Pie Asset Management
08.2020 - Current

CEO

Mineks Structured Finance Services
12.2016 - 08.2018

Chief Operating Officer

Hergüner Bilgen Özeke Attorney Partnership
09.2015 - 09.2016

Deputy General Manager

Mineks International
03.2013 - 09.2015

Country Manager

Mobile Marketing Association (MMA)
05.2011 - 09.2015

Managing Partner & CEO

Focus Communications
11.2010 - 03.2013

Managing Partner

TeknoMart
11.2009 - 11.2010

Manager

Turkcell
04.2002 - 10.2009

Associate Consultant

DiamondCluster International
09.2000 - 01.2002

Analyst

Bain & Company
08.1999 - 08.2000

Coordinator of the Group Companies

EKS F&B
06.1997 - 07.1998

Business Administration

University of Delaware
01.1993 - 6 1994

Managing Partner

Focus Global Project
9 2016 - Current

Board Member - Chair

A1 Portfolio Management Inc.
3 2022 - 8 2024

Bachelor of Science - Finance and International Business

Georgetown University
9 1994 - 6 1997

High School Diploma -

St. Georg Austrian High School
9 1984 - 6 1992
Ahmed Kerem KapancıManaging Partner / Board Member / C-Level Executive