Team size: Three

What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

Kraft Heinz has initiated a US$50mn investment, primarily to implement new infrastructure and increase production capacity through the new Heinz Tomato Ketchup Production Line (Heinz TK Line) to locally produce the unique, world-famous Heinz Tomato Ketchup in Türkiye. The investment has been awarded by Amcham Türkiye with the “US Investment of the Year 2023” award.

The legal team played a crucial role in negotiating the agreements with contractors and local partners, navigating regulatory requirements, led by our new team member Canan Yüzbaşıoğlu, the regulatory affairs manager, and ensuring compliance with both Turkish laws and international standards. The legal team’s expertise and diligence have been instrumental in safeguarding Kraft Heinz Türkiye’s interests and facilitating the smooth execution of the Heinz TK Line Project.

What strategic priorities are guiding you and your team in 2024?

The Kraft Heinz Company recently announced a ten-year plan. The company’s long-term growth plans in emerging markets will be the strategic priority of our legal team in 2024.

Do you have a cause, business-related or otherwise, that you are passionate about?

Corporate social responsibility is one of my passions. I am dedicated to ensuring that Kraft Heinz Türkiye not only complies with legal requirements but also actively engages in activities that benefit society and the environment.

Especially, sustainability initiatives and environmental stewardship begin with our own operational footprint and extend to activities within our supply chain, where our suppliers also have a responsibility to minimise the environmental impact of their materials, products, and operations.

I believe it is the responsibility of all in-house counsel to ensure that procurement agreements with suppliers include clauses addressing sustainable solutions, such as efficient water management and waste management practices, aiming to reduce the overall collective environmental footprint.