Murat Kaan Güneri, Managing Partner MKG & Partners / AltoPartners Türkiye

“Many people die with their music still in them. Too often it is because they are always getting ready to live. Before they know it, time runs out.” - Oliver Wendell Holmes

WHERE WERE YOU BORN, AND WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW?

I was born in Balıkesir, Turkey and have been living in Istanbul since the early 80s.

WHAT DID YOU STUDY AND WHY?

In high school, I excelled in science and aspired to follow in my father’s footsteps as an engineer. However, during an international exchange programme in America in my final year, I worked closely with a counsellor, and it opened me up to the world of psychology. I feel fulfilled knowing that I’ve achieved my goal of assisting individuals in uncovering their true selves, enhancing their strengths, and aligning their careers with their aspirations and loved ones.

FIRST JOB?

During my university years, I worked as a part-time VIP/CIP escort for several tourism companies involved in organising international conferences. After graduation, I was chosen to participate in the Management Trainee Program at a specialised bank. On completion, I transitioned into a generalist role within Human Resources.

FIRST CAR? Fiat 131 which I bought from my father.

CURRENT CAR? MG ZSEV. During a visit to Oslo, I was impressed by the widespread use of electric vehicles as part of a clean energy strategy, and I decided to try one. Even though I drive very little, it makes me feel good to be able to contribute to a cleaner environment, in my own, small way. Ideally, I wish I could ride my bike in Istanbul traffic.

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST SURPRISE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

At the outset of my professional journey, during a career discussion with a Turkish manager working abroad, I posed the customary question about his career aspirations. He articulated an international vision that seemed unattainable within the Turkish context at the time. Despite the absence of such a company or position in Turkey, I presumed it existed abroad and was simply unknown to me. Shortly after that, after undergoing nine interviews, he secured exactly the role he had described with a company based in Europe. After rising to the rank of a top-level manager abroad, he became CEO of one of Turkey’s largest companies for a period and continues his career trajectory overseas to this day. This experience taught me the importance of carefully considering each candidate’s career vision, regardless of how feasible it seemed at the time. There comes a time when a position emerges, and the first individual to come to mind is the one distinguished by their visionary outlook.

BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK?

At a remarkably young age, I served as a member of the Country Management Team in an international company, enjoying both financial security and a genuine passion for my work. Despite numerous enticing offers, none resonated with me on a professional level. It wasn’t until I used a headhunter to recruit our next CEO that I discovered my latent entrepreneurial inclination. The moment I recognised the potential of running my own business, I knew it was the path for me—a career I could wholeheartedly pursue indefinitely. It was a big risk to leave a lucrative corporate position to embark on an entrepreneurial venture, especially as I was just about to be married. Yet, I am grateful that I embraced the risk. Over the past 28 years, I’ve ventured into entrepreneurship as a founding partner of three executive recruitment companies, and my passion for the industry remains unwavering. I derive immense satisfaction and pride from facilitating symbiotic relationships between companies and managers, and from aiding them in attaining their objectives.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL BETTER ON A BAD DAY?

A short walk with my dog, Berni, an adopted street dog and a charming blend of Bernese Mountain Dog and Border Collie. While lacking the sharp intellect of the Border Collie, he embodies the gentle demeanour of a Bernese. Every day, he faithfully accompanies me to work, endearing himself to everyone he meets. Affectionately dubbed CHO (Chief Happiness Officer), he spreads joy wherever he goes and is cherished by all.

MY MOST REDEEMING QUALITY IS… I am sincerely apologetic if I make a mistake. It helps balance my large ego.

I HAVE LEARNED TO COME TO TERMS WITH… the importance of forgiveness.

WHAT’S THE THING THAT PEOPLE ARE MOST SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU?

People are often surprised when they learn that I hold a degree in psychology because in the 1980s it was considered an unusual career choice for men. Male students made up a mere two per cent of our class.

IN THE LAST MONTH, WHAT IS THE MOST INTERESTING CONVERSATION YOU HAVE HAD?

During our last summer holidays with my family, the discussion that made the biggest impression on me was prompted by Sam Killermann’s excellent tool, The Genderbread Person, which I recommend for anyone wanting to understand the complexity of biological sex, attraction, gender identity, and expression. My daughters were particularly impressed by my willingness to learn about these important issues, which are central to ensuring a more diverse and inclusive society.

LAST (OR MOST LOVED) HOLIDAY?

Annually, my two daughters and I set aside a week for a vacation together. When my late wife received the diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer, we made a collective decision to prioritise creating cherished memories. Over the past decade, we’ve upheld this tradition. For the initial six years, we were all present, and for the last four years, it’s been just my daughters and me. Each vacation holds a special place in our hearts, especially as they are now all working abroad. From the laid-back beach lifestyle to the heartfelt conversations and moments of pure joy, every experience is etched in our memories.

BEST BOOK YOU’VE READ IN THE PAST YEAR?

Atatürk’s Tables by İsmet Bozbağ, a well-known authority on Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the creator of modern Turkey. I purchased the first edition of “Atatürk’ün Sofrası”, written in the 1970s, on the recommendation of a friend. My interest lies in exploring the human aspect of this remarkable leader. For example, Atatürk knew that he possessed a strong personality. He observed that people, even close friends, felt uncomfortable speaking openly in his presence and hesitated to express their opinions. To alleviate this discomfort, Atatürk would invite people to dine with him. Individuals who had relaxed with alcohol and friendship would eventually muster the courage to express their thoughts and share what they knew. And so it happened that many state and world affairs were decided upon around his dinner table. It’s truly a portrait of an era.

WHAT HAVE YOU BINGE-WATCHED RECENTLY?

I don’t binge-watch anymore. The last two were some years ago: After Life by Ricky Gervais, and The Kominsky Method with Michael Douglas. I like dark humour.

BEST GADGET?

My iPhone. Predictable, but true.

HOW DO YOU RELAX AND UNWIND?

I enjoy taking long walks, photography, playing golf, and spending time with my close friends and loved ones.

CHARITY/ CAUSE CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART?

I support both the Mor Çatı Women’s Shelter Foundation and [Europa] Donna](https://www.europadonna.org/). My late wife was actively involved with both, and I admire their work.

I HAVE A COLLECTION OF… I don’t consider myself a collector. Instead, I focus on living life to the fullest and treasure the memories I create along the way.

IN MY FRIDGE, YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND… a Martini glass and a shaker.