Mahmut Akten Appointed as the New CEO of Garanti BBVA

Garanti BBVA has announced the appointment of Mahmut Akten as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). In addition to his new role, Akten will also serve as BBVA Turkey Country Manager. According to the bank's statement, his appointment will become effective following the completion of necessary legal procedures and the approval of the Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BDDK).

Mahmut Akten began his career in 1999 with the global construction materials company Holcim. In 2006, he joined the international consultancy firm McKinsey&Co., working in both the Boston and Istanbul offices. Akten transitioned to Garanti BBVA in 2012, initially serving as Executive Vice President responsible for Retail Banking. He held this position until 2022 when he was appointed Executive Vice President in charge of Corporate and Investment Banking and Global Markets. Akten holds a Bachelor's degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Bogazici University and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University.

In light of Mahmut Akten's appointment, BBVA Group CEO Onur Genc expressed gratitude to the outgoing CEO, Recep Bastug, for his leadership during a challenging economic period. Genc stated, "Recep Bastug successfully led Garanti BBVA during a time of significant macroeconomic and competitive challenges. We extend our deepest thanks for his invaluable contributions and extraordinary performance. We have full confidence that under Mahmut Akten's leadership, Garanti BBVA will continue to grow as one of the most profitable and respected banks in the country. We wish him success in his new role."

As the new CEO, Mahmut Akten will oversee the strategic growth plans of Garanti BBVA in Turkey. With the transition, the bank aims to set new strategies aligned with its growth objectives and implement these under Akten's guidance. Given Akten's extensive experience in the financial sector and his successful tenure in previous roles, he is expected to play a crucial role in achieving the bank's future goals. Garanti BBVA, being one of Turkey's leading banks, aims to strengthen its market position and enhance customer satisfaction.

Under Mahmut Akten's leadership, Garanti BBVA is expected to further solidify its market position by maintaining a customer-centric service approach and offering innovative banking solutions. The bank plans to continue its investments in technology and digital banking, aiming to provide better services to its customers. Akten's experience and leadership will be pivotal in driving the bank toward these goals.