Early Life and Education
İpek Kıraç was born in Istanbul, Turkey, on November 29, 1984. She is the adopted daughter of İnan and Suna Kıraç, both prominent figures in Turkish business and philanthropy. She attended Koç Özel Lisesi (Koç Private High School) and graduated in 2002. Her mother's battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) influenced her decision to study biology at Brown University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 2007. She also earned a Master of Public Health degree from Brown University in 2011.
Rise to Success
İpek Kıraç began her professional career in 2012 as the CEO of Sirena Marine Maritime Industry and Trade Inc.. Under her leadership, the company transformed from a contract manufacturer to a producer of luxury sail and motorboats, establishing its own brand. Sirena Marine expanded its production and became one of the top 500 largest exporting companies in Turkey, with a significant increase in turnover and profitability.
Key Business Strategies
During her tenure at Sirena Marine, Kıraç focused on several key strategies. She spearheaded the development of a luxury boat brand. Additionally, the company became a supplier for defense and automotive projects. Kıraç has also been a member of Koç Holding's Board of Directors since 2016.
Philanthropy
İpek Kıraç is actively involved in various philanthropic initiatives. She founded the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation. She launched the Suna'nın Kızları (Suna's Daughters) initiative, which focuses on empowering girls through education. She also established the SemtPati Foundation, which supports stray animal welfare using digital technologies and volunteer mobilization.