Hilmi Akarsu

Human Resources Manager @ Sabanci Holding

About

As a global-minded HR Executive with 18+ years of experience, I specialize in building inclusive, AI-powered, and performance-driven people strategies across complex business ecosystems. I’ve had the privilege of leading award-winning leadership development programs (Gold Stevie®), embedding ESG into organizational DNA, and executing HR M&A strategies that support sustainable business growth. At Sabancı Holding, I’ve driven the “Future of Work” transformation, designed an AI-based talent platform, and elevated MSCI ESG ratings—all while enhancing C-suite collaboration and group-wide engagement. A certified CHRO (Cambridge), I’m passionate about shaping workplaces where innovation, culture, and human potential thrive.

Country

Türkiye

City

Istanbul

Industry

Financial Services

Skill

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), GenAI, Yapay Zeka, Üretken Yapay Zeka, AI, Leadership Development, Talent Management, Employee Engagement, Training and Development (HR), Performance Management, building organizational capability, Industrial Relations, Career Path Planning, Strategy Alignment, Group policy, Build Strong Relationships, İK Dönüşümü, Başka Ülkede Yaşayan Yönetimi

Experience

Human Resources Manager

Sabanci Holding

2018-11 - Present · 7 yrs 11 mos

Istanbul, Turkey

• Spearheaded "Future of Work" strategy and innovation-focused upskilling programs including GenAI. • Delivered award-winning leadership journeys, focusing on inclusive growth and business impact. • Managed executive-level compensation & benefits strategy. • Co-led HR due diligence and integration planning during international acquisitions. • Developed AI-based talent management and internal mobility systems. • Designed and launched internal communication app and group-wide campaigns. • Co-led sustainability initiatives aligned with MSCI ESG standards.

HR Head- Group Headquarters

OYAK Mining Metallurgy

2015-10 - 2018-11 · 3 yrs 2 mos

Istanbul, Turkey

• Directed people strategy & people partnership for 9 functions at HQ level • Represented group at employer union MESS meetings • Restructured organizational design to improve alignment with growth.

HR Executive – Development Management

Akçansa

2013-1 - 2015-8 · 2 yrs 8 mos

İstanbul

• Leading SAP Successfactors Talent Bundle implementation team. SAP Performance module implementation was chosen the best implementation in Turkey. • Taking part in transformation process of ready mix cement business line.

Organizational Development Assistant Manager

Doğuş Otomotiv

2012-6 - 2012-11 · 6 mos

Istanbul, Turkey

• Executing critical HR processes of Foreign Affiliate (Switzerland) • Designing new reward and performance procedure for Dogus Otomotiv • Assessing job grades with HAY experts • Taking part in founding process of Dogus Technology