MCT Talks | CHRO Buluşmaları Aziz Emre Günel & Şengül Arslan Demircan

Thank you. I will share my perspective. The world is going through an interesting period. Recent events show humanity coming together on common values. The pandemic is similar to the Spanish flu after WWI, which led to major societal changes. Digitalization and Society 5.0 are like a laboratory. Technology is making life easier. The economic impacts are significant. Turkey managed the process well, but I am concerned about rapid normalization. I hope we continue successfully.

Thank you, that's a great question. At Şişecam, we have a transformation program called 'Roots and Wings' for the last two years. Digital transformation happens at different speeds in different sectors. In industry, the value chain is more complex. We are implementing systems that comply with regulations in 14 countries. The pandemic accelerated our digital transformation. We used the time at home to focus on these projects and improve morale.

Digital transformation is not just about learning to use tools. The most important part is ensuring all employees understand the value chain and the big picture. We started by sharing examples from other sectors. We have a 'Digital Transformation School' for all employees. Now we are at a point where employees share their own work. We believe in learning by doing. Regarding the pandemic, as a glass manufacturer, we had to continue production. We prioritized health and safety, business continuity, and supporting our ecosystem. We communicated transparently and saw a great sense of solidarity.

Culture is not independent of mechanisms, systems, and leadership. We are shaping the culture through structures and processes. In Turkey, the brand and Atatürk's legacy create strong loyalty. But abroad, we need to prove ourselves through our systems and what we add. The journey to create similar loyalty continues.

The digital transformation continues. We are piloting digital twins, dark warehouses, and unmanned depot applications on a larger scale. This will give us a competitive advantage. Secondly, we are going through a major organizational change by merging 34 companies under one roof to attract international investors. Thirdly, like all industries, we need to change our business models. Job designs, performance concepts are changing. We need new definitions. Our goal is to move towards more flexible and productive systems to create more value and sustainable growth.

Innovation is now about experimentation. We are in a laboratory. The 'Roots and Wings' program is a practical journey. We included suppliers in the value chain, which builds loyalty. Competency adaptation through experimentation is key. The new normal is managing frequent crises. We need to manage the present and transformation simultaneously. Leadership is crucial. We are all learning together.