Nermin Yalçı
Istanbul
Summary
As a Data Science & AI Director, I lead AI and automation initiatives across multiple countries, transforming data into strategic insights that drive business growth and operational efficiency. With a background in Statistics (METU) and a Master’s in Marketing (Marmara University), I have built a career at the intersection of data, technology, and business. My expertise spans predictive analytics, segmentation, forecasting, and process optimization, with a strong focus on aligning AI strategies with organizational goals to enable data-driven decision-making.
I oversee a team of AI and automation experts, managing large-scale projects that leverage machine learning, automation, and advanced analytics to create tangible business value. Beyond the technical aspects, I bridge the gap between AI and business impact, collaborating with executives and cross-functional teams to implement scalable, AI-driven solutions. Proficient in Python, R, Scikit-learn, Spark MLlib, Microsoft OpenAI Service, SAS Viya, and more, I believe AI is not just about algorithms but about solving real-world problems, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of business.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
AI & Robotic Solutions Director
BorusanCat
01.2020 - Current
- Leading AI & Robotics Across Six Countries: Overseeing a high-performing AI and Robotics team to develop and implement cutting-edge platform solutions and innovations.
- Shaping AI & RPA Strategies: Designing and executing AI and RPA roadmaps to seamlessly integrate automation and maximize business impact.
- Enhancing Predictive Decision-Making: Leveraging AI and robotics to foster a data-driven decision-making culture and improve strategic outcomes.
- Driving Digital Transformation: Utilizing big data technologies to streamline operations, optimize processes, and enhance overall business efficiency.
- Pioneering AI & Automation Innovations: Exploring new data sources and methodologies with Generative AI, Machine Learning (ML), Robotic Process Automation (RPA), process mining, and advanced analytics.
- Strengthening Data Governance: Establishing and enforcing policies for effective data management and information governance across the organization.
- Staying at the Forefront of Innovation: Continuously monitoring advancements in AI, big data, and automation to apply the latest technologies and inspire innovation within the team.
Data Science Manager
TFI-TAB Food Investments
08.2015 - 01.2020
- Optimizing Restaurant Performance: Developed predictive models to forecast restaurant demand and set performance targets.
- Customer Segmentation & Personalization: Analyzed customer data to refine marketing strategies and enhance personalized experiences.
- Revenue Forecasting for New Locations: Estimated annual revenues for new restaurant openings using property value modeling and predictive analytics.
- Campaign Propensity Modeling: Built models to predict customer responsiveness, improving campaign effectiveness and ROI.
- Strategic Pricing & Profitability Analysis: Designed pricing strategies and analytical models to optimize restaurant profitability.
Business Analytics Lead
Turkcell
04.2008 - 08.2015
- Driving CRM & Business Intelligence Initiatives: Led global CRM and BI projects, collaborating with consultancy firms to identify new analytical opportunities.
- Empowering Business Teams with Analytics: Provided ad-hoc analyses to support Marketing, Sales, and Customer Experience (CE) departments.
- Customer Data Analysis & Profiling: Analyzed customer behavior and key insights to drive data-informed strategies for Marketing, Sales, and CE teams.
- Integrated Marketing & Campaign Strategies: Designed and executed targeted marketing campaigns aligned with business goals.
- Enhancing Customer Engagement: Developed AI-driven customer experience models and analytical CRM applications to improve satisfaction and loyalty.
- Campaign Automation & Optimization: Managed the development and enhancement of campaign management systems.
- Big Data Management & Insights: Analyzed large-scale datasets, including Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), to extract valuable business insights.
- Predicting & Influencing Customer Behavior: Identified unexpected customer patterns to optimize engagement and retention strategies.
- Revenue Growth & Churn Reduction: Developed data-driven strategies to enhance revenue generation and customer retention.
Quality Control Statistics Expert
AGB Nielsen
11.2006 - 04.2008
- Ensuring Media Panel Quality: Maintained the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of media measurement data.
- Analyzing Viewing Behavior: Identified and validated anomalies in audience measurement data.
- Survey Design & Panel Recruitment: Developed survey methodologies and selected representative families for media panels.
- Field Supervision & Execution: Oversaw the implementation of surveys to ensure data integrity and compliance with research standards.
- Audience Segmentation & Profiling: Classified households based on demographics and viewing habits to refine audience insights.
- Channel Segmentation & Targeting: Defined audience groups based on content preferences to support strategic decision-making.
Modeling & Analytics Specialist
AC Nielsen
01.2004 - 09.2006
- Data Integration & Strategic Insights: Transformed multi-source data into actionable business recommendations.
- Advanced Marketing Analytics: Developed in-depth analytical reports to address key marketing challenges.
- Marketing Impact Evaluation: Assessed the historical effectiveness of marketing strategies and campaigns.
- Opportunity Forecasting: Optimized promotions, pricing strategies, and consumer targeting through predictive analytics.
- Statistical Modeling & Analysis: Applied advanced statistical methods to uncover meaningful insights.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Contributed to trade union report production and other strategic initiatives.
- Reporting & Presentation Development: Created detailed reports and presentations to communicate key marketing insights effectively.
Education
Master of Science - Product Management And Marketing
Marmara University
Istanbul, TurkeyBachelor of Science - Statistics
Middle East Technical University (METU)
AnkaraSkills
- SQL
- Python
- Rapidminder
- Knime
- SPSS Miner
- SAS Viya
- Cloud Platforms, Azure
- PoweBI, QlikView
Timeline
AI & Robotic Solutions Director
BorusanCat
01.2020 - Current
Data Science Manager
TFI-TAB Food Investments
08.2015 - 01.2020
Business Analytics Lead
Turkcell
04.2008 - 08.2015
Quality Control Statistics Expert
AGB Nielsen
11.2006 - 04.2008
Modeling & Analytics Specialist
AC Nielsen
01.2004 - 09.2006
Master of Science - Product Management And Marketing
Marmara University
Bachelor of Science - Statistics
Middle East Technical University (METU)