We are happy to shine our Team Member spotlight on Anil Türkoğlu, who joined our Hyosung Turkey office as Marketing Team Vice Manager in May of 2023. Anil has deep roots in the denim market, having spent over 10 years holding various positions such as product development, and sales & marketing management for Turkish denim mills and sourcing companies. His passion for the textile industry and international business, not to mention his love for denim, make him a valuable asset to our Hyosung Global Brand Marketing Team. If you happen to be attending Kingpins Amsterdam this October 18-19, please stop by our booth – Blue Zone 38 to say hello to Anil! In the meantime, we hope you enjoy our interview below with him!
How did you get your start in the textile industry?
Textiles were a very popular subject in Turkey during the 90’s. When I was at secondary school/high school, I was hearing some very good stories from people who were involved in the textile industry. This interested me a great deal, and as a result, I planned to study Textile Engineering. During my bachelor years at university, I joined many student exchange programs and realized the textile market is global business – another major interest of mine. So, after university, I decided to continue my career path as a professional in textile industry.
What do you like best about your role at Hyosung?
I love working with a major global textile company. Hyosung is an international solution-oriented organization, and I am happy to be part of it.
How do you think textile industry has changed over the last 2 to 3 years?
Due to increased concern over the health of our environment, the textile industry has become more complex. More engineers, material developers and sustainable process developers are needed to develop sustainable materials and industry processes to reverse the years of damage the textile has caused. Consumer purchase decisions and demand have also changed over the last 2 to 3 years now that Gen Z is on center stage and taking action for their future. It’s a very exciting time for innovation!
Do you have a favorite Hyosung fiber and if so, what is it?
I love denim fabric, so that’s why creora® 3D max spandex is my favorite. However, I am also interested in sustainable solutions, so our 100% recycled Regen yarns and Bio-Based fibers are also on my list of favorites.
Who/what inspires you and why?
Founder of Inditex, Amancio Ortega Gaona, and the God Father of Denim, Adriano Goldschmied inspire me because they both created very successful businesses starting from zero. I love their passion.
What do you enjoy doing with your time away from work?
I love meeting people from different nationalities and searching for new places to travel, explore, and dine. dine. I also enjoy discovering new information from other industries. I believe life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving. I like doing many different things at the same time. I also love spending time with my son – and daughter (she is really a dog 🙂)!
What do you love best about living in Istanbul – for those of us who have never been?
People call it chaos, we call it home, this is İstanbul! Istanbul is an exotic metropolis – steeped in rich history and culture – and pulsating with modern life. That’s why I love this city! But honestly, Istanbul is one of the most over-crowded cities in the world with a population of approximately 16 million, so at times living in İstanbul can be very tiring.
Is there a favorite food/s we must try?
Turkish ice cream (From Kahramanmaraş). You must try it!
Where is one place you’ve never been, but is high on your list to visit?
I have never been to Japan. Tokyo is in the top of my wish list!
