Beşir Kemal Ustaoğlu
With more than 40 years of business and life experience across Türkiye, Europe and the United States, I am a trainer, speaker, author, strategic consultant and independent board member. I guide the growth of organisations and individuals and focus on creating synergy within them.
Academic Background
After finishing high school in Antakya, I completed language studies in England and business administration in the United States on a state scholarship. I hold an economics degree from Boğaziçi University. While attending the Executive MBA programme at Koç University, I moved to the United States.
I have taken part in professional development programmes at many universities including Harvard Business School, Bilgi, The New School, Washington State and Galatasaray University.
Interests & Travel
I achieved several rankings in motorsport, was selected for the Camel Trophy Turkish Team and completed international marathons. Sailing, travelling, off-road driving, cycling and photography are the activities I enjoy most.
I have visited almost every state in the United States and had the opportunity to travel to nearly 50 countries for business. I am married with two children.
My Career Journey
Founding Partner & General Manager
I served as general manager and founding partner of our family company operating in aggregate mining, and I have continued as a board member for forty-one years.
Export, Retail & Real Estate
I achieved a first by exporting TEKEL products to the United States and opened cigar and accessory stores. I worked as a real estate consultant within Century 21 and served as Country Manager for Goldaş Jewellery in the United States. I am a partner in foreign trade companies based in Miami and New York.
İSPARK, Galataport and Road Safety
I helped establish İSPARK through the Build-Operate-Transfer model, and introduced the flexible wire-rope safety barrier system to Türkiye for the first time. I served as general manager of terminal and car park services for the Galataport project.
REAG – Duff & Phelps – Kroll Country Manager
I coordinated the development of the Marry Mall project. As country manager, I built a valuation team meeting international standards. I provided internationally connected consultancy services to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and many brands.
Training, Writing & Independent Board Membership
My training career began at Boğaziçi University (BÜYEM); I have lectured at Kadir Has, Istanbul Aydın and Arel Universities. I donated all proceeds from my book "FAILURE SUCCESS HAPPINESS" to BÜMED. I continue to provide consultancy and training in strategic management, leadership, franchising and HORECA.
Civil Society, Volunteering & Media
Associations & Institutions
I have served as founder and executive in many civil society organisations, including the presidency of TABA-AmCham, the presidency of AGÜB, founding board membership of TACCI, the board of Hatayspor and the vice-presidency of BÜMED.
I am currently a member of the TABA-AmCham advisory board, a delegate of Fenerbahçe Sports Club, and a member of Istanbul Rotary, FOTON, TKYD, YÜD and the Hatay Ortak Meselemiz Association.
Writing, Media & Speaking
I have been a guest speaker on channels such as CNN International and Bloomberg. I write articles for Asfalt Dünyası magazine and produce radio and podcast programmes.
I volunteer in the Boğaziçi University mentorship programme and held signing days and talks for my book at D&R stores.
Let's design a programme for your organisation
Write to me to learn more about training and consultancy programmes in leadership, sales, communication and strategic management.
Get in Touch