Gurkan Donat

Gurkan Donat is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in academic relations and franchise management. Currently serving as the Short Term Study Programs Coordinator at İstanbul Aydın Üniversitesi since March 2022, Gurkan has previously held significant roles such as Vice President and Board Member of Ufrad/Turkish Franchise Association, where responsibilities included representing the Turkish franchise sector internationally. Gurkan has also worked as an Academic Relations Manager for EF Education First & Accelium, overseeing educational opportunities for higher education institutions and high schools in Turkey. With a strong background in franchise operations, Gurkan has held various leadership positions, including Purchasing Director at Simit Sarayi and General Manager at Cızbız Köfte Restaurants, while also serving as Chairman of Motta Pasticeria İtaliana. Gurkan's academic credentials include an MBA from Istanbul Technical University and a BBA from Schiller International University, complemented by a strong foundation in tourism and hotel management.