My Story
Born in the vibrant city of Istanbul, at the crossroads of civilization, my journey through life has been as diverse and dynamic as the world itself. As I took my first steps into this world, the Vietnam War was coming to an end, Jaws was captivating audiences worldwide, and a little-known startup named Microsoft was taking its first steps in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Little did I know, these seemingly unrelated events would shape the fabric of my life.
My family embarked on an adventure that would see me grow up on three continents, a journey that began with a move to Africa when I was just starting school. Adapting to new environments, cultures, and educational systems became second nature to me, fostering skills that would later become the cornerstone of my leadership style. As an only child, I learned the profound importance of forging friendships early on – a lesson that underscored the values of honesty, empathy, transparency, and unwavering dedication, principles that continue to define my leadership approach.
By the time I arrived in the United States as a seventeen-year-old freshman, I had already developed a deep-seated passion for all things maritime. After initially setting sail in the marine biology department at the Florida Institute of Technology, I soon realized that my true calling was Ocean Engineering, and never looked back. My journey led me to build a small submarine with my classmates for our graduation project, setting the course for a career that would delve deep into the mysteries of the ocean.
My first job took me to California, where I contributed to designing a submersible boat for special operations. While the project itself may not have seen the light of day, the invaluable real-world business lessons I gleaned during this time continue to guide me to this day.
Over the next two decades, I had the privilege of leading and contributing to various teams that revolutionized the way robots navigate the ocean depths, safeguarding special operators, and enabling offshore energy companies to conduct deep-water operations. My career thrived at the electrifying intersection of technical innovation and emerging markets, a place where I personally find inspiration and drive.
My journey has been marked by both personal and professional challenges, each of which has provided critical life lessons. These experiences reinforced my belief in taking immediate action, no matter how daunting it may seem, to fulfill my dreams and aspirations.
My journey through life and business is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding commitment to making a positive impact on the world. My career has been defined by exploring uncharted waters, and now, I bring my experiences to drive strategy, innovation, and business transformation in my clients' organizations around the globe.