Birol Celik
Digital Transformation Expert | IT Executive Leader
Istanbul/Turkey,34
Summary
Strategic IT leader with 25+ years of experience driving digital transformation, cybersecurity, and enterprise IT solutions in higher education, government, and corporate sectors. Proven track record in aligning technology initiatives with business goals, optimizing IT operations, and delivering scalable, cost-effective digital solutions. Passionate about leveraging emerging technologies to improve efficiency, security, and user experience.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Languages
Work History
Director of Information Technology
Halic University
Istanbul/Turkey, 34
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Led a campus-wide digital transformation initiative, boosting operational efficiency by 20% and reducing IT costs by 15% through cloud adoption and cybersecurity enhancements
- Designed and deployed a new Online Academic System, integrating student accounts, CRM, and HR access systems, improving administrative efficiency
- Oversaw a multimillion-dollar IT budget, ensuring cost-effective solutions aligned with institutional goals
- Developed and maintained service level agreements for strategic applications and measured performance against objectives.
- Analyzed department and job-related functionality requirements to align technology priorities with business needs.
- Implemented an effective data backup and disaster recovery plan to minimize potential losses due to unforeseen events or security breaches.
- Spearheaded the adoption of advanced analytics tools within the organization, enabling data-driven decision making and increased competitive advantage.
- Performed regular audits and tests of infrastructure and applications.
- Documented and analyzed processes and procedures and adhered to regulatory guidance.
- Enhanced cybersecurity measures for the organization through regular system audits, vulnerability assessments, and employee training programs.
- Ensured seamless network connectivity between offices in different locations through proper planning and deployment of robust infrastructure solutions.
- Developed cross-functional relationships with other departments to better understand their technology needs and deliver tailored solutions that supported business objectives.
- Cultivated highly-regarded technology services organization that sustained culture of respect, collective pride and individual and group professional development.
- Promoted employee skill development by creating targeted training programs that addressed both current needs and future technology trends within the industry.
- Fostered a culture of collaboration within the IT team through regular meetings, open communication channels, and cross-functional project engagements.
- Developed a comprehensive IT strategy aligned with business objectives to support organizational growth and drive innovation.
- Optimized IT budget allocation by identifying cost-saving opportunities and reallocating resources towards high-impact projects.
- Led the migration of legacy systems to cloud-based infrastructure, resulting in increased scalability and ease of access for remote employees.
- Developed and implemented technical application support and information technology policies and procedures that advanced investment needs, outcomes and performance measurements to balance continuous innovation with responsible risk-taking.
- Implemented a robust IT governance framework that ensured compliance with industry regulations, reduced risks, and improved overall system security.
- Implemented, created and tested disaster recovery and business continuity plans and maintained appropriate back-up system.
- Successfully managed large-scale IT projects from inception through completion while adhering to strict timelines and budget constraints.
- Oversaw the selection, implementation, and integration of new enterprise software applications that streamlined business processes across multiple departments.
- Streamlined IT operations by implementing efficient processes and automation tools, leading to reduced downtime and improved productivity.
- Managed technology vendor relationships effectively, ensuring timely delivery of products and services while maintaining cost controls.
- Stayed abreast of technology advancements, emerging standards, and IS regulations to meet strategic technology goals.
- Championed best practices in information management while maintaining a focus on continuous improvement to drive operational excellence throughout the organization.
- Fostered positive working environment that encouraged innovation, collaboration and accountability and managed end-user needs with functional and security responsibilities.
- Prioritized framework to evaluate technology and regulate communication with business stakeholders.
- Championed digital transformation initiatives across the organization by promoting the adoption of new technologies that enhanced operational efficiency.
- Established performance metrics for the IT department to monitor progress against objectives, enabling continuous improvement initiatives.
- Identified opportunities for application optimization, redesign and development and troubleshot and resolved user and application issues.
- Deployed, monitored and maintained system installation, upgrades and network integration.
- Introduced agile methodologies for project management within the department, leading to faster development cycles and increased responsiveness to changing business needs.
- Developed, tracked, and controlled information technology operating budgets and cost and benefit analyses for IT spending initiatives.
- Identified computer hardware and network system issues, performing troubleshooting techniques for remediation.
- Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
- Oversaw development and implementation of improvements to support network operations.
- Analyzed network security and current infrastructure, assessing areas in need of improvement.
- Led technical upgrade projects for clients by working and coordinating with consultants and developers for integrations.
- Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
- Coordinated secure system access of users to various department systems and platforms.
- Liaised with other departments to minimize network interruptions and possible downtimes.
- Wrote strategic business plans outlining need for departmental information technology resources.
Head of Cyber Security
ROOTCON Cyber Security
Istanbul/Turkey, Istanbul
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Revamped the Cyber Security Operations Center, improving threat detection and incident response times
- Developed and enforced security policies that significantly reduced vulnerabilities and strengthened compliance with industry standards
Director of Information Technology
Istanbul Aydin University
Istanbul/Turkey, Istanbul
01.2010 - 01.2017
- Spearheaded the development of an Academic Management System with 20 software modules, enhancing student services, ERP, and classroom technology
- Designed a microservices-based IT architecture, ensuring seamless integration of university-wide systems
- Launched automation initiatives that cut manual workloads and increased operational efficiency
- Led a major IT infrastructure upgrade, increasing digital adoption from 20% to 80% over seven years
- Introduced the 'Smart Campus' model, influencing 25+ universities in their digital strategies
- Built an online education platform serving 10,000+ students, optimizing remote learning infrastructure
- Developed and maintained service level agreements for strategic applications and measured performance against objectives.
- Analyzed department and job-related functionality requirements to align technology priorities with business needs.
- Implemented an effective data backup and disaster recovery plan to minimize potential losses due to unforeseen events or security breaches.
- Developed a comprehensive IT strategy aligned with business objectives to support organizational growth and drive innovation.
- Spearheaded the adoption of advanced analytics tools within the organization, enabling data-driven decision making and increased competitive advantage.
- Introduced agile methodologies for project management within the department, leading to faster development cycles and increased responsiveness to changing business needs.
- Managed technology vendor relationships effectively, ensuring timely delivery of products and services while maintaining cost controls.
- Promoted employee skill development by creating targeted training programs that addressed both current needs and future technology trends within the industry.
- Developed, tracked, and controlled information technology operating budgets and cost and benefit analyses for IT spending initiatives.
- Developed cross-functional relationships with other departments to better understand their technology needs and deliver tailored solutions that supported business objectives.
- Successfully managed large-scale IT projects from inception through completion while adhering to strict timelines and budget constraints.
- Oversaw the selection, implementation, and integration of new enterprise software applications that streamlined business processes across multiple departments.
- Championed digital transformation initiatives across the organization by promoting the adoption of new technologies that enhanced operational efficiency.
- Fostered positive working environment that encouraged innovation, collaboration and accountability and managed end-user needs with functional and security responsibilities.
- Fostered a culture of collaboration within the IT team through regular meetings, open communication channels, and cross-functional project engagements.
- Led the migration of legacy systems to cloud-based infrastructure, resulting in increased scalability and ease of access for remote employees.
- Performed regular audits and tests of infrastructure and applications.
- Implemented, created and tested disaster recovery and business continuity plans and maintained appropriate back-up system.
- Established performance metrics for the IT department to monitor progress against objectives, enabling continuous improvement initiatives.
- Deployed, monitored and maintained system installation, upgrades and network integration.
- Optimized IT budget allocation by identifying cost-saving opportunities and reallocating resources towards high-impact projects.
- Championed best practices in information management while maintaining a focus on continuous improvement to drive operational excellence throughout the organization.
- Identified opportunities for application optimization, redesign and development and troubleshot and resolved user and application issues.
- Implemented a robust IT governance framework that ensured compliance with industry regulations, reduced risks, and improved overall system security.
- Ensured seamless network connectivity between offices in different locations through proper planning and deployment of robust infrastructure solutions.
- Documented and analyzed processes and procedures and adhered to regulatory guidance.
- Stayed abreast of technology advancements, emerging standards, and IS regulations to meet strategic technology goals.
- Enhanced cybersecurity measures for the organization through regular system audits, vulnerability assessments, and employee training programs.
- Developed and implemented technical application support and information technology policies and procedures that advanced investment needs, outcomes and performance measurements to balance continuous innovation with responsible risk-taking.
- Prioritized framework to evaluate technology and regulate communication with business stakeholders.
- Streamlined IT operations by implementing efficient processes and automation tools, leading to reduced downtime and improved productivity.
- Cultivated highly-regarded technology services organization that sustained culture of respect, collective pride and individual and group professional development.
- Identified computer hardware and network system issues, performing troubleshooting techniques for remediation.
- Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
- Oversaw development and implementation of improvements to support network operations.
- Analyzed network security and current infrastructure, assessing areas in need of improvement.
- Led technical upgrade projects for clients by working and coordinating with consultants and developers for integrations.
- Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
- Coordinated secure system access of users to various department systems and platforms.
- Liaised with other departments to minimize network interruptions and possible downtimes.
- Wrote strategic business plans outlining need for departmental information technology resources.
IT Leadership Roles (CIO, CTO, CISO, System Administrator)
Turkish Armed Forces
Istanbul/Turkey, Istanbul
01.1999 - 01.2010
- Managed IT operations across 250+ servers and 4,300+ computers, improving system efficiency by 85%
- Led Turkey's largest virtual desktop infrastructure (40,000 desktops, 85 applications), cutting support costs by 80% and saving $300K in licensing fees
- Designed and deployed a multi-tier private cloud, reducing storage costs by $1M
- Recognized by industry leaders (Dell, Nvidia, Lakeside) for contributions to IT transformation
- Handled sensitive information discreetly, maintaining strict confidentiality at all times as required by company policy or legal regulations.
- Maintained personnel records and updated internal databases to support document management.
- Managed office inventory levels, ensuring adequate supplies were available while minimizing waste and unnecessary spending.
- Established an organized filing system that streamlined document retrieval and reduced misplaced files.
- Improved employee productivity with effective time management strategies for daily tasks.
- Supervised administrative support staff members, offering guidance, feedback, and mentorship that contributed to their professional growth and development.
- Organized workflow and delegated tasks effectively to ensure timely project completion without compromising quality.
- Maintained accurate documentation of company policies and procedures for easy reference by all employees.
- Provided exceptional customer service to both internal and external stakeholders through prompt response times and thorough issue resolution efforts.
- Served as a liaison between departments, fostering open communication channels that improved overall organizational function.
- Coordinated company events and meetings to foster teamwork and boost employee morale.
- Enhanced internal communication by creating a centralized information hub accessible to all staff members.
- Managed human resources functions, including hiring, onboarding, and employee evaluations for optimal team performance.
- Reduced overhead costs through careful budget management and resource allocation.
- Enhanced employee onboarding process, improving new hire satisfaction and reducing time to productivity.
- Coordinated with IT department to upgrade software, ensuring all systems were up-to-date and running efficiently.
- Organized and executed quarterly staff training sessions, keeping team informed on latest administrative protocols and technology.
- Implemented customer feedback system, leading to improved service delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Streamlined office operations by implementing new filing system, significantly reducing retrieval times.
- Managed scheduling for executive staff to ensure optimal time management and productivity.
- Orchestrated relocation of office, ensuring smooth transition with minimal operational downtime.
- Optimized supply chain logistics for office supplies, avoiding stockouts and excess inventory.
- Initiated program for recycling and waste reduction, contributing to corporate sustainability goals.
- Facilitated communication between departments, ensuring smooth operation and timely completion of projects.
- Developed and maintained up-to-date database of contacts, facilitating quick and efficient communication.
- Developed comprehensive filing system that significantly improved document retrieval times.
- Streamlined invoice processing, reducing average payment turnaround time.
- Oversaw maintenance of office equipment, minimizing downtime due to malfunctions or repairs.
- Coordinated logistics for annual corporate events, ensuring seamless execution and high attendee satisfaction.
- Led transition to paperless office, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
- Implemented new email management strategy, reducing clutter and improving communication efficiency.
- Negotiated with vendors to secure more favorable terms, resulting in cost savings for office expenses.
- Improved team productivity with introduction of shared online calendar for tracking deadlines and appointments.
- Enhanced data security measures, conducted regular system backups to prevent data loss.
- Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.
- Gathered, organized and input information into digital database.
- Generated reports detailing findings and recommendations.
- Maintained database systems to track and analyze operational data.
- Evaluated customer needs and feedback to drive product and service improvements.
- Created and managed project plans, timelines and budgets.
- Cultivated positive relationships with vendors to deliver timely and cost-effective supply of services and materials.
- Conducted regular reviews of operations and identified areas for improvement.
- Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
- Developed effective improvement plans in alignment with goals and specifications.
- Frequently inspected production area to verify proper equipment operation.
- Educated staff on organizational mission and goals to help employees achieve success.
- Helped meet changing demands by recommending improvements to business systems or procedures.
- Maintained overall safe work environment with employee training programs and enforcement of safety procedures.
- Evaluated staff performance and provided coaching to address inefficiencies.
- Devised and implemented processes and procedures to streamline operations.
- Provided reporting for forecast analysis and ad-hoc reporting in support of decision-making.
- Observed packing operations to verify conformance to specifications.
- Supported creation of detailed, technical financial models to value potential acquisition targets.
Education
Master of Science - Computer Science
Marmara University
Istanbul, 34 09.2003 - 07.2006
Bachelor's - Computer Science
Ege University
Izmir, 35 01.1999 - 09.2000
Bachelor of Business Administration -
Military Academy
Ankara, 06 09.1987 - 09.1991
Skills
Enterprise architecture
Websites
Accomplishments
Key Accomplishments
- Led a digital transformation strategy that improved IT efficiency by 30% and reduced operational costs.
- Designed and implemented Turkey’s largest virtual desktop infrastructure, saving $3M in hardware costs.
- Pioneered Smart Campus initiatives, setting industry benchmarks for digital education infrastructure.
- Directed cybersecurity initiatives, reducing system vulnerabilities by 40% and ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Spearheaded cloud migration strategies, improving scalability and cutting costs by 25%.
Timeline
Director of Information Technology
Halic University
01.2021 - 01.2023
Head of Cyber Security
ROOTCON Cyber Security
01.2020 - 01.2021
Director of Information Technology
Istanbul Aydin University
01.2010 - 01.2017
Master of Science - Computer Science
Marmara University
09.2003 - 07.2006
Bachelor's - Computer Science
Ege University
01.1999 - 09.2000
IT Leadership Roles (CIO, CTO, CISO, System Administrator)
Turkish Armed Forces
01.1999 - 01.2010
Bachelor of Business Administration -
Military Academy
09.1987 - 09.1991