Hayri DENİZ

Key Expert 2 in the EU Funded Project Technical Assistance for the Increasing the Competitiveness of Main Sectors in Sinop. As KE2, he was responsible for:

• Ensuring alignment with the goals and objectives outlined in Component A: SEANOP – Fish Processing and Storage Facility in Sinop.
• Collaborating closely with the Team Leader to synchronize activities with the overall project strategy and timeline.
• Working with other key experts and project stakeholders to ensure seamless integration of fisheries-related activities.
• Demonstrating self-motivation and a strong sense of personal responsibility.
• Adapting to flexible working hours, including night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
• Participating in team projects, showcasing the ability to collaborate effectively.
• Resolving problems, enhancing operations, and delivering exceptional service.
• Quickly learning and adapting to new technology and software applications.
• Demonstrating adaptability and proficiency in learning new concepts swiftly and efficiently.
• Excelling at working independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Showing passion for learning and commitment to continual improvement.
• Assisting with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
• Demonstrating respect, friendliness, and willingness to assist wherever needed.
• Enhancing communication skills through regular interactions with others.

Seafood Consultant Carried out studies on business development and investment in the seafood processing sector in the Türkiye.

Mr. DENIZ's responsibilities included:

• Conducting market research and analysis to identify new business opportunities and potential markets for seafood processing.
• Developing and implementing strategies to enhance the company's presence in the seafood processing sector.
• Evaluating investment opportunities in Turkey, focusing on assessing risks and potential returns.
• Collaborating with financial analysts to create economic models and projections for prospective investments.
• Applying professional expertise in seafood processing to inform decision-making and strategic planning.
• Leveraging extensive experience in fish and seafood processing to improve product development and market positioning.
• Manage and coordinate business development initiatives to ensure alignment with the company's expansion goals.
• Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders in targeted regions.
• Keeping abreast of industry regulations and ensuring the company's operations comply with all relevant laws and standards.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to successfully deliver comprehensive solutions for clients.
• Managed client relationships through regular check-ins and updates on project progress.

As a Fisheries and Aquaculture Consultant and General Assembly Member, Mr. DENIZ spearheaded initiatives involving comprehensive research, project identification, and assessment to support the Sustainable Blue Economy and the conservation of marine biodiversity in Turkey. His role included:

• Conducting rigorous research and analysis to identify potential project opportunities, funded by the French Development Agency (AFD), within Turkey's fisheries and aquaculture sector, including the fish and seafood processing sector.
• Developing strategies to promote and integrate sustainable practices across the fisheries, aquaculture, and fish/seafood processing sectors.
• Evaluating and proposing initiatives to enhance the conservation of marine biodiversity in Turkey's coastal regions.
• Collaborating closely with environmental experts and marine biologists to ensure the achievement of conservation goals.
• Interfacing with representatives from the French Development Agency to align project initiatives with their objectives and requirements.
• Compiling and organizing data to comprehensively report identified project opportunities.
• Communicate findings, recommendations, and action plans to internal and external stakeholders.
• Staying informed about local and international fisheries, aquaculture, and marine conservation regulations.

Secretary General Mr. DENIZ has been instrumental in steering the organization towards its mission of advancing and enhancing the aquaculture and fish/seafood sectors in Mugla. Leading a diverse range of initiatives, Mr. DENIZ has played a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices, supporting members, and contributing to the industry's growth by:

• Manage day-to-day operations and administrative tasks of the Mugla Fish Farmers Association.
• Work closely with the president to implement organizational strategies and policies for the aquaculture and fish/seafood sectors.
• Lead initiatives focused on stabilizing market competition and prices within the aquaculture and seafood sectors.
• Advocate for modernizing fish farms and adopting sustainable practices within aquaculture and fish/seafood processing.
• Spearhead campaigns to highlight the benefits of Mugla Fish Farmers Association's initiatives, contributing to the industry's positive image.
• Manage a diverse membership base of industry professionals, providing support and fostering collaboration among members.
• Facilitate the participation of aquaculture and fish/seafood processing sector members in national and international projects, enhancing their knowledge and experience.
• Represent the association on national and international platforms, ensuring effective representation and collaboration with public institutions, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
• Foster relationships with industry players to facilitate marketing aquaculture and processed seafood products in domestic and international markets.
• Collaborate with industry stakeholders to promote best practices in the fish/seafood processing sector.
• Advocate for adopting advanced aquaculture and fisheries technologies to enhance the quality and competitiveness of products.
• Facilitate knowledge exchange and training programs to empower members in the latest developments in fisheries/aquaculture.
• Lead initiatives related to environmental sustainability, including advocating for responsible practices and adherence to regulations.

Consultant Distinguished by a proven track record as a Consultant at KILIÇ Seafood Company, Mr. DENIZ has been a driving force behind the company's success, showcasing extensive expertise in strategic decision-making, project coordination, and business integration within the dynamic landscape of the fish/seafood processing industry. With a noteworthy tenure from February 2017 to January 2022, his multifaceted role encompassed:

• Served as the Consultant, contributing to the company's strategic decision-making and business development initiatives.
• Project Coordinator for the 4-year EC Project "SUCCESS-Strategic Use of Competitiveness towards Consolidating the Economic Sustainability of the European Seafood Sector,"
• focusing on economic development and competitiveness in the European aquaculture and fish/seafood processing sectors.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing a vertically fully integrated business model for KILIÇ Seafood Company.
• Provided consultancy to 3 fish/seafood processing/packaging factories and 1 value-added fish/seafood processing/packaging factory of KILIÇ Seafood Company in Türkiye.
• Successfully obtained and maintained international and national quality certificates, including GLOBAL G.A.P., BRC, IFS, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 22000, BSCI, ASC, and HALAL.
• Possessed extensive knowledge of the HACCP system and ISO 22000 standards.
• Played a key role in establishing and operating a fish processing, packaging, and storage facility in Milas, Muğla, in alignment with the Rural Development Investment Support Program of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (KKYDP).
• Showcased comprehensive professional experience in the food processing sector, emphasizing fish/seafood processing techniques.
• Applied expertise in the establishment and operation of fish processing and packaging plants, contributing to the success of KILIÇ Seafood Company's operations.
• Obtained and maintained industry-specific certifications such as GLOBAL G.A.P., BRC, IFS, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 22000, BSCI, ASC and HALAL, showcasing a commitment to high standards and quality in the seafood processing sector.
• Streamlined communication processes for clients, enabling more effective collaboration and decision-making.
• Enhanced client decision-making, synthesizing complex data into clear, concise reports and dashboards.

Key Expert 2 in the EU-funded Project TA for Capacity Building for Fisheries Producer Organizations and Provincial Agricultural Directorates in line with the Common Market Organization (CMO) of Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
As KE 2, Mr. DENIZ was responsible for:

• Ensure alignment with the goals and objectives set forth by the Common Market Organization (CMO) of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
• Work closely with the Team Leader to align activities with the overall project strategy and timeline.
• Collaborate with other key experts and project stakeholders to ensure seamless integration of fisheries-related activities.
• Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
• Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Secretary General for both the National Union for Turkish Aquaculture Producers and Muğla Fish Farmers Association and Mr. DENIZ was responsible for:

• Held the position of Secretary General for both SUYMERBIR and MKBD, providing leadership and administrative oversight.
• Represented all Turkish aquaculture producers and fish farmers, including seafood processing sector members in Muğla, showcasing a commitment to the interests of the industry.
• Contributed to the development and implementation of strategic plans for both organizations, aligning with the goals of Turkish aquaculture producers and processed seafood producers.
• Advocated or the interests of the aquaculture and seafood processing sectors at the national and international levels.
• Represented the organizations in various forums, meetings, and activities, actively engaging with stakeholders in Turkey and abroad.
• Fostered collaboration among aquaculture and seafood processing sectors' stakeholders, including producers, industry experts, and government bodies.
• Provided expertise and actively engaged in discussions related to the fish/seafood processing sector.
• Participated in activities aimed at improving and promoting fish/seafood processing techniques and practices in the sector.
• Organized and facilitated numerous meetings, bringing together industry stakeholders to discuss challenges, opportunities, and advancements in the aquaculture and seafood processing sectors.
• Collaborated with international organizations, sharing insights and best practices in aquaculture production and processed seafood.
• Supported educational initiatives within the aquaculture and seafood processing sectors, promoting knowledge-sharing and skill development.
• Emphasized the importance of continuous learning, innovation, and best practices in the industry.
• Established and maintained a strong network of contacts within the aquaculture and processed seafood community, fostering relationships that benefited the organizations and the industry as a whole.

Director of Foreign Investment and International Relations for the biggest finfish production company in the Mediterranean. Mr. DENIZ was responsible for:

• Formulated and executed strategies to enhance the global market presence of KILIÇ Seafood Company, focusing on finfish production including processed (chilled and frozen).
• Led efforts to attract foreign investments in the finfish production and processing industry, fostering collaborations with international stakeholders.
• Established and nurtured international partnerships to facilitate growth and expansion for KILIÇ Seafood Company on a global scale.
• Ensured compliance with international standards and regulations in the seafood processing sector, including aspects.
• Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
• Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
• Improved project efficiency with strategic planning, resource allocation, and time management practices.
• Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
• Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
• Identified and qualified customer needs and negotiated and closed profitable projects with a high success rate.

Director of Marine Aquaculture in the Aquaculture Department of DG for Agricultural Production and Development. Mr. DENIZ was responsible for:

• Utilized extensive administrative experience to obtain permissions from official institutions to establish fisheries, aquaculture facilities, and fish/seafood processing facilities.
• Prepared and managed projects related to fisheries, aquaculture and seafood processing, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Successfully obtained project approvals for various initiatives within the sector.
• Leveraged expertise to facilitate the design, project, and operation of seafood processing and packaging plants.
• Ensured adherence to the HACCP system and ISO 22000 standards in all seafood processing activities.
• Designed, evaluated, approved, established, and managed all marine fish farming and seafood processing facilities in Türkiye.
• Served as the President of the International Organization for the Development of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Seafood Processing in Europe (EUROFISH).
• Led initiatives to implement HACCP systems, improve traceability, and enhance market access for selected fish processing companies.
• Facilitated the movement of aquaculture products, including processed seafood from Albania, Croatia, and Turkey, up the value chain through knowledge and experience sharing.
• Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
• Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.

As Board Member of the Turkish National Committee of Coastal Zone Management (KAY) Mr. DENIZ was responsible for:
• Fostered collaboration among board members, promoting open communication and shared decision-making.
• Collaborated with other board members to develop and execute programs and initiatives to advance organizational mission.
• Served as a strong advocate for corporate social responsibility, influencing positive community impact.
• Reviewed financial reports, budgets, and audit results to monitor the organization's fiscal health.
• Developed and implemented strategies to drive organizational growth and development.
• Researched potential local, regional, and national funders and assisted in relationship building.
• Fostered collaboration among board members, promoting open communication and shared decision-making.
• Served as advocate and ambassador for the organization by fully engaging, identifying, and securing resources and partnerships to advance the mission.
• Facilitated a significant increase in volunteer engagement by revamping the volunteer recruitment process.

• Fostered collaboration among board members, promoting open communication and shared decision-making.
• Served as advocate and ambassador for organization by fully engaging, identifying, and securing resources and partnerships to advance mission.

Mariculture Expert in the Aquaculture Department of DG for Agricultural Production and Development. Mr. DENIZ was responsible for;

• Specializing in sustainable mariculture practices, ensuring responsible marine finfish aquaculture and seafood products.
• Ensuring compliance with national and international regulations, explicitly focusing on Article 9 of the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (CCRF).
• Led an FAO mission as Team Leader for the Consultation on applying Article 9 of the CCRF in the Mediterranean Region.
• Facilitating knowledge transfer and collaboration between stakeholders in mariculture, emphasizing connections to fish/seafood processing sector standards.
• Contributing to capacity-building initiatives, emphasizing integrating fish/seafood processing practices within mariculture operations.
• Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
• Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.

Counterpart/Mariculture Expert in FAO Project on Fish Farming in Beymelek Lagoon in Turkey. Mr. DENIZ was responsible for:

• Serving as a counterpart and Mariculture Expert in the FAO Project on Fish Farming in Beymelek Lagoon in Turkey, emphasizing applicable methodologies to fish/seafood processing sector standards and practices.
• Contributing to the project's objectives with a focus on sustainable fish farming practices, aligning with processing standards for quality and safety.
• Utilizing hands-on experience in a marine hatchery, specializing in producing fingerlings for sea bass and sea bream, thereby contributing to the broader seafood processing sector by ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality raw materials.
• Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
• Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
• Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
• Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
• Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
• Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
• Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.

Researcher Mr. DENIZ, as a Researcher at Bodrum Fisheries Research Institute, took charge of:
• Led the Turkish-Italian Bilateral Cooperation Project for the Development of Aquaculture in Turkey, linking aquaculture advancements to fish/seafood sector standards and practices.
• Managing the National Project for Stock Assessment of Economical Fish Species in Gulluk Bay and Gokova Bay, contributing valuable data for informed decision-making in the seafood sector.
• Overseeing the National Project on Stock Assessment of Koycegiz Lagoon, providing insights into fish stocks crucial for the sustainability of the fish/seafood sector.
• Conducted thorough literature reviews to identify gaps in knowledge and inform future research directions.
• Gathered and organized information for research purposes.
• Investigated effects of invasive species on ecosystems and recorded findings.
• Utilized technology to track the movement of species across oceans and land masses.