Who is Levent?

I am a Data & AI Transformation Leader with 25+ years of experience turning complex data landscapes into measurable business value across global enterprises and high-tech startups.

Currently, I support KPN’s data mesh and governance modernization initiatives in the Netherlands and advise Accelera Digital Group (ADG) on business development for data-driven use cases in Africa, including solution delivery and go-to-market strategy.

Previously, I partnered with the Chief Data Officer at Nexent Bank to co-author the Responsible AI Policy for internal LLM usage, streamline regulatory reporting through integrated governance instruments, optimize End-User Computing, and align data security with the bank’s governance framework to improve compliance and visibility.

Earlier, during my three-year tenure at Goldman Sachs, I served as Data Governance Program Manager, leading a comprehensive roadmap for data lineage, data permissibility, metadata cataloging, and data quality while coordinating senior stakeholders across business and technology.

My career in the Netherlands has also included data leadership roles at MUFG and NN Investment Partners, where I focused on establishing data governance strategies, strengthening controls, and managing critical data pipelines for investment and banking operations.

A defining chapter of my career was co-founding philogica, a niche data consultancy serving the EMEA region, where I led IT Data Solution Delivery from 2007 to 2017 and established the London office—experience that sharpened my ability to balance strategic vision with hands-on execution.

Beyond corporate roles, I actively support early-stage startups—including deepzen.io, thyris.ai, magnevo.co, and jobbar.ai—as a Startup Advisor, mentoring founders, shaping data and AI strategy, and helping translate innovation into scalable business outcomes.

I have contributed to the data management community as Founding Vice President of the DAMA Turkey Chapter and as an instructor for the Banks Association of Turkey between 2009 and 2018, promoting professional standards in data governance and management.

I began my career as a Data Engineer at MasterCard (Provus). I later managed IT projects in post-Soviet countries at Siemens Business Services, building a practical foundation in data engineering and large-scale project delivery.

Outside of work, I focus on a balanced life with my son and on my health, while pursuing stock investing and human psychology to deepen my understanding of global markets and decision-making under uncertainty.