İpek Kıraç: Turkey’s Fifth Richest Person, According to Forbes 2023
İpek Kıraç: A Successful Leader in Business and Philanthropy
İpek Kıraç is a remarkable individual who has made significant contributions both in the business world and in philanthropy. Born and raised in Turkey, Kıraç’s educational journey began at Koç Private High School, where she completed her studies in 2002. She then went on to pursue her passion for biology at Brown University, graduating from the Department of Biology in 2007.
Continuing her academic pursuits, Kıraç embarked on a master’s degree in the Public Health program at Brown University in 2009. It was during this time that she had the opportunity to work at the Cecil B. Day Laboratory of Neuromuscular Research at UMass Medical School. There, she actively participated in research focused on ALS disease, demonstrating her commitment to making a difference in the field of healthcare. Additionally, Kıraç gained valuable clinical experience through her internship at the American Hospital Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
In 2012, Kıraç joined Sirena Marine Denizcilik San. and served the company until 2021. During her tenure, she took on the role of CEO at Ticaret A.Ş, leading Sirena Marine through a strategic transformation. Thanks to Kıraç’s visionary leadership, the company successfully developed its own brand in the luxury sailing and motor yachts sector. Today, Sirena Marine stands as one of Turkey’s top 500 exporters, boasting an exceptional reputation for excellence in production and brand awareness. This achievement has led the company to become a preferred supplier in projects within the defense industry and automotive sectors. Under Kıraç’s guidance, Sirena Marine experienced an impressive five-fold increase in turnover and a twenty-fold increase in profitability in less than a decade, solidifying its position as a global player in the industry. Currently, İpek Kıraç continues to serve as the Chairman of the Board of Directors at Sirena Marine, ensuring the company’s continued success.
Beyond her achievements in the business world, İpek Kıraç actively engages in philanthropic endeavors. As a Founding Board Member of the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, she initiated an educational initiative entitled “Suna’s Daughters” in 2021. This initiative aims to empower girls by creating a supportive ecosystem that enables them to realize their dreams through an interdisciplinary and holistic approach. Furthermore, she founded the SemtPati Foundation, which utilizes digital technologies and encourages voluntary participation to improve the welfare of stray animals. Demonstrating her dedication to social responsibility, Kıraç serves as a Board Member for several esteemed organizations, including the Vehbi Koç Foundation, Temel Ticaret ve Yatırım A.Ş., American Hospital, Zer Merkez Hizmetleri A.Ş., Arçelik Pazarlama A.Ş., and Setur Servis Turistik A.Ş.
Moreover, Kıraç holds influential positions in the educational sector. As the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Koç School, she plays a pivotal role in guiding the school’s vision and mission. Additionally, she serves as a Member of the Board of Trustees for Koç University and the Galatasaray Education Foundation, recognizing the importance of education in shaping the future generation. Furthermore, Kıraç contributes to the Turkish Education Volunteers Foundation (TEGV) as a Member of the Board of Directors, actively supporting their efforts in promoting education.
In recognition of her exceptional leadership and contributions, İpek Kıraç became a Board Member of Koç Holding in 2016. Her diverse experiences, combined with her strong dedication to making a positive impact, continue to inspire and shape various sectors, making her an influential figure in both the business and philanthropic worlds.
İpek Kıraç’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, education, and an unwavering commitment to creating a better world. It is through her remarkable achievements and philanthropic initiatives that Kıraç sets an exemplary example for individuals aspiring to make a difference in their respective fields.