Core Team
Our core team is the backbone of our vision, bringing together expertise, innovation, and leadership to drive impactful results.
Özgür ŞAKAR
Industrial Engineer w. MBA
20 Years Experience
Strategy & Business Dev.
Project Management
Automotive – Defence – IT
Founder & Managing Director
With over 20 years of extensive experience, Özgür Şakar has worked at the intersection of automotive, defense, and digitalization. From managing multi-hundred-million-dollar international programs to leading strategic business development initiatives, Özgür has consistently demonstrated adeptness in program management, business development, technology transfer, and digital transformation. Özgür began his professional journey in 2005, leveraging his background in optimization, artificial intelligence and software development. During his time in the UK from 2007 to 2009, he honed his expertise in With over 20 years of extensive experience, Özgür Şakar has worked at the intersection of automotive, defense, and digitalization. From managing multi-hundred-million-dollar international programs to leading strategic business development initiatives, Özgür has consistently demonstrated adeptness in program management, business development, technology transfer, and digital transformation. Özgür began his professional journey in 2005, leveraging his background in optimization, artificial intelligence and software development. During his time in the UK from 2007 to 2009, he honed his expertise in digitalization and software optimization, including specialized training from Preactor (now Siemens) on advanced planning and scheduling systems. Upon his return to Turkey, he applied his skills at a start-up, spearheading solutions powered by genetic algorithms to optimize production planning and machine sequencing. An innovator by nature, Özgür has consistently integrated software solutions to automate and enhance processes across his career. Notable achievements include delivering cutting-edge Industry 4.0 initiatives, integrating ERP, PLM, and CRM systems, and developing user-centric digital platforms to improve operational efficiency and business process excellence. This reflects his lifelong commitment to combining technology with practical business solutions. Özgür holds a degree in Industrial Engineering from Kocaeli University and an MBA from Koç University. Throughout his tenure, he has managed and executed complex international projects across multiple domains, such as armored vehicle manufacturing and advanced digital transformation programs. His leadership style emphasizes strategic alignment, meticulous planning, and fostering collaboration across diverse stakeholders, ensuring seamless execution and measurable outcomes.
Sehun ARIKAN
Industrial Engineer w. MBA
25 Years Experience
Sales & Business Dev.
Supply Chain Management
Defence – Marine – AeroSpace
Managing Partner – Benelux Region
Sehun Arıkan is a seasoned professional professional with 25 years of expertise in business development, project management, and supply chain operations, primarily in the defense, marine, and aerospace industries. A graduate of Middle East Technical University with a degree in Industrial Engineering, he further augmented his strategic and managerial acumen by earning an MBA from Hacettepe University, specializing in business administration and operations management. Sehun's career is marked by significant contributions to high-stakes projects across land, air, and naval platforms. He has a proven track record of spearheading business development initiatives, managing multimillion-dollar accounts, and driving sales growth in international markets. His experience includes leading responses to complex tenders, negotiating contracts, and overseeing the execution of key customer projects. In addition to his strategic leadership, Sehun brings hands-on expertise in multi-modal logistics and customs operations, ensuring the efficient global transportation and delivery of vehicles and goods. He has also worked extensively in electronics systems design, development, verification, integration, and delivery, providing comprehensive solutions tailored to the needs of his clients. Throughout his career, Sehun has held pivotal roles, including Export Manager at OTOKAR, Sales Manager at Microflown AVISA, and Project Management Specialist at HAVELSAN. His ability to align operational excellence with business strategy has made him a trusted leader and a key contributor to the success of the organizations he has served. Now, as a Senior Partner at TBNL, Sehun leverages his deep industry knowledge and global network to empower technology-driven enterprises to thrive in competitive European markets.
Sinan BUBİK
MSc. Electric & Electronic Eng.
30 Years Experience
C-Level Management
Sales & Business Dev.
Energy – Heavy Industry – IT
Managing Partner - DACH Region
Sinan Bubik is a highly accomplished professional with over 25 years of experience in the energy and information technology sectors. A graduate of Istanbul Technical University with a degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering, he furthered his education in Informatics (German) at Marmara University's Social Sciences Institute, combining technical expertise with a strong understanding of global business dynamics. Sinan began his career at Siemens Turkey in 1995, where he steadily rose through the ranks in sales and product management roles within Communication and Information Technologies. By 2009, he had assumed senior leadership positions, managing business units in Power Generation, Renewable Energy, and Energy Distribution. His responsibilities included overseeing large, multi-functional teams, driving strategic growth, and managing projects with revenues exceeding €200 million. In his most recent role at Siemens, he led the Distribution Systems Business Unit as Head of Division, managing a team of 700 employees and delivering impactful solutions across diverse energy sectors. In 2022, Sinan relocated to Munich, where he took on the role of Business Development Director for Europe at a leading software company, a subsidiary of Siemens in Germany. In this capacity, he drove strategic growth initiatives, strengthened client relationships, and expanded the company’s presence across the European market, leveraging his deep expertise in business development and technology solutions. Now a Senior Partner at TBNL, Sinan continues to leverage his deep industry knowledge, leadership experience, and global network to support clients in achieving transformative growth. His expertise spans international business development, renewable energy systems, organizational leadership, and strategic change management, making him a key driver of TBNL’s mission to empower high-tech companies in the European market.
Aylin Akça OKAN
PhD Software Eng & MSc
Economics
30+ Years Experience
Project Mgmt. & Business Dev.
Funding & Grants Management
Digital and Social Transformation
IT – Energy – Life Science
Head of Funding & Tenders Management
With over 30 years of experience in digital transformation, project management, and strategic business development, Aylin Akça Okan brings a wealth of expertise to TBNL. Her career spans diverse industries, including healthcare, defense, energy, and information technologies, where she has consistently delivered innovative solutions and driven organizational growth. Aylin began her professional journey in 1993 as a Research Assistant and Lecturer at Middle East Technical University (METU), specializing in Software Engineering, System Analysis & Design, and Intelligent Agents. During her tenure, she managed and contributed to several high-impact projects, including the Internet Supported Asynchronous Training Project (İ_DEA) and the Ankara University Computerization & Automation Project (AÜBİP). Her career progressed with roles at leading organizations such as Siemens, Software AG, and Atos, where she honed her skills in large-scale project management, business development, and digital transformation. Notably, as the Business Unit Manager at Atos, Aylin managed a portfolio worth approximately €50 million annually, overseeing 88 employees across public, defense, energy, and R&D sectors. She excelled in strategic planning, resource management, and fostering partnerships, consistently delivering results that aligned with organizational goals. Aylin’s expertise extends to academia, where she served as a Senior Lecturer at Atılım University, teaching courses on Software Engineering, Project Management, and Digital Transformation. She also supervised MSc theses and contributed to EU ITEA, TUBITAK TEYDEB, and NATO proposal projects, further solidifying her reputation as a thought leader in technology and innovation. In recent years, Aylin has focused on operational management and strategy building in the healthcare and technology sectors. As the Head of Technology Development Center & Digital Transformation at LÖSANTE Children and Adult Hospital, she spearheaded initiatives to enhance digital capabilities and streamline operations. Her role at ICterra Information and Communication Technologies as Business Unit Director further showcased her ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage complex projects, and drive international business development. Aylin holds a Ph.D. in Software Engineering from Atılım University, where her research focused on eGovernment Maturity Models and Multi-Criteria Decision Modeling. She also earned a Master’s Degree in Economics and a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering from Middle East Technical University (METU). At TBNL, Aylin specializes in Grant Applications, leveraging her deep understanding of national and international funding mechanisms to help clients secure resources for their innovative projects. Her strategic approach, combined with her technical expertise and commitment to excellence, makes her an invaluable asset to the team.
Tunç AKBAYAR
Electrical Engineer w. MBA
20+ Years Experience
Brand Building
Marketing Mgmt. & Execution
FMCG – Coffee – Beverages
Senior Consultant – Brand Building & Marketing
With over 20 years of experience in brand building, consumer and trade marketing, digital media management and marketing capability building, Tunç Akbayar has established himself as a strategic leader in the FMCG, particularly in food and beverage industry. His career is marked by a proven track record of building strong brands, delivering impactful marketing strategies and executions that resonate with consumers, hence driving growth and profitability. Tunç began his professional journey in 2003 as an Assistant Brand Manager at Tat Gıda, where he gained his first “field” experience as a team member in the successful relaunch of the "TAT" brand after 40 years. He promoted to Brand Manager and led the launch of two “raki” brands, which was a new initiative of Koç Holding after the privatization of state-owned monopoly of alcoholic beverages in Türkiye. This new venture achieved 5% market share within two years—a significant accomplishment in a competitive market dominated by the old monopolistic brands. In 2007, Tunç joined Mey Alcoholic Beverages (now Mey/Diageo) as a Brand Manager, where he managed a diverse portfolio of alcoholic beverages, including Binboa Vodka, Tekirdağ Rakısı, and HARE Fruit and Coffee Liqueurs. His innovative campaigns and strategic initiatives resulted in significant market share growth, increased brand awareness, and industry recognition, including a Silver Effie Award for HARE Liqueurs and a Crystal Apple Award for Binboa Vodka’s cinema advertisement. Tunç’s expertise expanded further during his 12-year tenure at Nestlé Türkiye, where he held several leadership roles. As the Marketing Manager for the Coffee Category, he led the NESCAFÉ Gold, NESCAFÉ Classic, and Nestlé COFFEE-MATE brands, achieving a 16% CAGR in organic growth over three years. His TVC Campaign “Nescafé Gold, Kokusunda Davet Var” campaign became one of best recognized campaigns of 2015 and 2016 with 82% recognition score (IPSOS), enabled reaching stretch sales targets. His award-winning campaign, "Nescafé Classic ile Sabahları Sen Kimsin?”, earned a Bronze Effie Award and significantly boosted brand image and sales. In his role as eBusiness Manager (Digital Media & Content Lead), Tunç spearheaded Nestlé Türkiye’s digital marketing strategy across 10 categories, driving e-sales growth and launching innovative eRetail initiatives. He also led the Consumer Engagement Center, achieving an impressive Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 83%. Most recently, as Marketing Capability Manager, he developed and executed a structured marketing capability program, fostering a strong marketing community and representing Türkiye on the Zone-Europe Marketing Capability Board. Tunç holds an MBA from Koç University and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Yıldız Technical University. His certifications in eCommerce and eBusiness from Nestlé further underscore his expertise in digital transformation of consumer engagement. At TBNL, Tunç brings his extensive experience in marketing, brand management, and digital strategy to help clients navigate the complexities of the European market. His ability to combine data-driven insights with creative solutions makes him a valuable asset to the team.
