Sabanci University Executive and Leadership Team

Huriye Okumuşoglu, the Chief Financial Officer at Sabanci University, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Okumuşoglu manages the university's budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to support academic and research initiatives. This leadership role involves overseeing financial planning, accounting, and reporting, aligning fiscal activities with the university's long-term objectives. By optimizing financial processes, Huriye Okumuşoglu directly contributes to the institution's stability and growth. The Chief Financial Officer also guides investment strategies and manages financial risk, safeguarding the university's assets and ensuring sustainable operations. This critical function supports the university's mission of providing world-class education and fostering innovation.

Arzu Dinç, the Chief of Staff To the President at Sabanci University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the President's office. Dinç coordinates key initiatives, manages executive communications, and ensures the efficient functioning of presidential operations. This role involves acting as a liaison between the President and various university departments, facilitating collaboration and driving project execution. By streamlining administrative processes and enhancing organizational effectiveness, Arzu Dinç directly supports the President's vision and strategic priorities. The Chief of Staff To the President also plays a crucial part in strategic planning, policy development, and special projects, ensuring alignment across the university's leadership. This position is vital for maintaining operational momentum and achieving institutional objectives.

Ada Akbulut, the President at Sabanci University, directs the overall strategic vision and academic leadership of the institution. Akbulut guides the university's mission to cultivate globally competitive individuals, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence. This leadership role encompasses overseeing all academic programs, research endeavors, and administrative functions, ensuring alignment with Sabanci Group's founding principles. By championing educational advancements and fostering international collaborations, Ada Akbulut significantly impacts the university's global standing. The President also engages with stakeholders, including faculty, students, alumni, and industry partners, to advance the university's objectives. This comprehensive leadership ensures Sabanci University remains at the forefront of higher education.

Erkam Aygün, the Public Speaking Society President at Sabanci University, leads initiatives focused on enhancing communication and presentation skills among students. Aygün organizes workshops, training sessions, and competitive events designed to build confidence and articulate ideas effectively. This role involves fostering a vibrant student community dedicated to mastering public discourse and persuasive speaking. By developing robust programs, Erkam Aygün directly supports students' personal and professional growth, equipping them with essential skills for future careers. The Public Speaking Society President also manages the society's operations, including event planning, member recruitment, and resource management. This dedication ensures students gain valuable experience in leadership and effective communication.

Ekin Marlalı, the Founder & President at Sabanci University, established the institution with a vision for global academic excellence. Marlalı drives the foundational mission of cultivating highly qualified individuals prepared for international careers. This leadership position involves setting the strategic direction and upholding the core values that define Sabanci University. By pioneering innovative educational approaches, Ekin Marlalı ensures the university remains a leader in preparing students for a dynamic world. The Founder & President also oversees the university's growth and development, fostering partnerships and ensuring the institution's long-term success and impact. This role is central to the university's identity and its commitment to shaping future leaders.

Müjgan Baysal, the Education Processes Planning&Analysis Senior Spec.-President's Office and Eğitim Süreçleri Planl.&Analiz at Sabanci University, spearheads the strategic planning and analysis of educational processes. Baysal focuses on optimizing academic workflows and ensuring the efficiency of educational delivery systems. This critical role involves evaluating current educational methodologies and identifying areas for enhancement to meet global standards. By implementing data-driven insights, Müjgan Baysal directly contributes to the continuous improvement of the university's academic offerings. The Senior Specialist also collaborates closely with the President's office to align educational strategies with institutional goals, ensuring a cohesive and effective learning environment. This position is key to maintaining Sabanci University's commitment to high-quality education.

Nihat Berker, the President at Sabanci University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the institution's academic and research endeavors. Berker guides the university's commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for global challenges. This role involves overseeing the development and implementation of innovative educational strategies and research initiatives. By championing academic freedom and interdisciplinary collaboration, Nihat Berker enhances the university's reputation and impact. The President also works to strengthen relationships with international academic communities and industry partners, expanding the university's reach and influence. This leadership ensures Sabanci University continues to excel in higher education and research.

Pnar Tolan, the President's Office Administrative Affairs Specialist at Sabanci University, manages essential administrative functions supporting the President's office. Tolan ensures the smooth operation of daily activities, handling scheduling, correspondence, and logistical support. This position is vital for maintaining organizational efficiency and facilitating effective communication within the university leadership. By providing dedicated administrative support, Pnar Tolan directly contributes to the seamless execution of presidential duties and strategic initiatives. The Administrative Affairs Specialist also assists in coordinating meetings, events, and special projects, ensuring all operational aspects are meticulously managed. This role is fundamental to the operational effectiveness of the President's office and the university's overall functioning.

Elif Gül, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Sabanci University, leads all human capital management initiatives. Gül oversees talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment. This position involves crafting and implementing HR policies that align with the university's strategic goals and values. By fostering employee engagement and professional growth, Elif Gül enhances the overall performance of the academic and administrative staff. The Chief Human Resources Officer also manages compensation and benefits programs, employee relations, and compliance with labor laws. This comprehensive approach to HR ensures that Sabanci University attracts and retains top talent, crucial for its mission of global excellence.