ERDAL DURUKAN / FOUNDING CHAIRMAN

Holding a Computer Science degree from Stockholm University, Erdal Durukan began his career in Citibank Sweden, where after three years he moved to Ericsson as a System Analyst and project manager. In 1994, he participated in the establishment of the first Turkish GSM operator Turkcell as IT project manager. In 1996, he started the first GSM operator Azercell, a subsidiary of Turkcell, in Azerbaijan and worked as the CEO and Board member until 2001. During his tenor, he was responsible for the International assets of Turkcell and was the chairman and board member of the extended business of Turkcell in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. By 2001, he became the President of TeliaSonera Eurasia and was the Chairman of Fintur, Vice Chairman of Turkcell and board member of Megafon in Russia until 2007, where the estimated market value of the companies is to the tune of $40 Bn.

Erdal Durukan established the first Swedish Consulate in Azerbaijan in 1998 and worked as the Honorary Consul of Sweden until 2008. The Kingdom of Sweden awarded him with the Medal of Merit in 2009 for his diplomatic career and contribution to the relationship between Sweden and Azerbaijan.

After leaving his professional career, he has focused on and has investments in real estate, tech startups and food&beverage industry; currently prioritizing investments in impactful solutions that aim to drive change.