Early Life
Murat Ülker was born in Istanbul, Turkey, on March 21, 1959. He is the son of Sabri Ülker, the founder of Ülker Holding. He attended İstanbul Erkek Lisesi and graduated from Boğaziçi University with a degree in business administration. He furthered his education at the American Institute of Baking and Zentralfachschule der Deutschen Süßwarenwirtschaft (ZDS).
Rise to Success
Ülker began his career at the Ülker Group, part of Yıldız Holding, in 1984 as a control coordinator. He advanced through various roles, including assistant general manager and general manager. He became CEO of Yıldız Holding in 2000 and Chairman in 2008. Under his leadership, Yıldız Holding expanded through acquisitions like GODIVA Chocolatier in 2008 and United Biscuits in 2014. In 2016, he spearheaded the formation of pladis, a global business consolidating brands like Ülker, United Biscuits, and DeMet's Candy Company.
Key Business Strategies
Ülker focused on expanding Yıldız Holding through strategic acquisitions and international expansion. This includes the acquisition of Godiva Chocolatier and United Biscuits. He also emphasized innovation, incorporating new technologies and processes.
Philanthropy
Ülker is involved in philanthropy and established the Sabri Ülker Foundation in 2009, which focuses on public health issues related to food and nutrition. In 2014, the Ülker family contributed $24 million to Harvard University to establish The Sabri Ülker Center for Nutrient, Genetic, and Metabolic Research.
