Signium enters Turkish market with new office in Istanbul

Global executive search and leadership advisory firm Signium has expanded into the Turkish market with the opening of a new office in Istanbul.

The launch marks a strategic expansion into one of the world’s most dynamic and geographically pivotal economies, with Neslihan Akan appointed as Managing Partner of Signium’s Turkish business.

Akan has more than 15 years of executive search experience in the region, and has worked closely with Turkey’s largest companies and multinationals, advising on CEO, CXO roles, and board-level placements. She also has experience with leadership advisory services.

From its Istanbul office, Signium will focus on senior-level search, including CEO, CXO, and non-executive director roles. The firm will also offer leadership assessments and advisory services for boards and executive teams.

Annelize van Rensburg, Chair at Signium, is pleased to welcome the new office into the organization: “We believe that Turkey is one of the most promising economies in the world – vibrant, strategically positioned, and particularly rich in leadership potential. Expanding into this market fulfils a major part of our broader strategy of growing our presence across the Middle East and neighbouring regions.”

“We’re confident that Neslihan and her team will make a significant impact on the executive leadership landscape.”

As the 16th largest economy globally, Türkiye boasts a well-established banking sector, large industrial and FMCG companies, a rapidly growing tech scene, and active investment in renewable energy and e-commerce. The country’s high levels of digital adoption, mobile-first consumer behaviour, and entrepreneurial culture have also made Istanbul an up-and-coming regional startup and fintech hub.

Akan: “Turkey’s location as a bridge between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia makes it a powerful hub for cross-border business and leadership talent. We have a highly educated and globally mobile workforce. With more than half the working population under the age of 35, we have a rich pipeline of talent – not just for Turkey, but for the wider region.”