Limak Holding Chairwoman Ebru Ozdemir has been appointed as the Chair of the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Engineering and Construction Industry Group. Ozdemir is the first Turkish representative and the first woman to lead this prestigious group, which consists of the world’s leading engineering companies. She will serve as Chair for a two-year term from 2025 to 2027.
The appointment was announced during the 55th World Economic Forum held in Davos, Switzerland, from January 20-24, under the theme “Collaboration in the Smart Era.” Speaking about the honor, Ozdemir stated:
“Being appointed to this role as a representative of a Turkish engineering company among global engineering giants at such a prominent platform like the World Economic Forum is a great source of pride for me.”
Breaking Barriers as the First Female Chair
As a long-time participant of the Davos Summit, Ozdemir highlighted the historic nature of her appointment, marking the first time a woman has chaired the WEF’s Engineering and Construction Industry Group. Reflecting on her new role, she outlined the group’s two-year roadmap:
“Limak Holding represents Turkey’s construction industry as the only Turkish company within this group. This year’s summit has become especially meaningful for us, as I will lead the ‘Governors’ Community,’ a network of CEOs and board-level representatives from over 20 global engineering firms. Taking on this responsibility as the group’s sole female member is both exciting and inspiring.”
Focusing on Workforce, Technology, and Innovative Business Models
Ozdemir emphasized the group’s priorities for the upcoming term, which include addressing workforce challenges, advancing technological integration, and promoting innovative business models:
“Our focus will be on finding shared and lasting solutions to the global challenges faced by our industry. Workforce development is a key area—we prioritize narrowing the talent gap and building a workforce that meets the demands of our sector. By fully embracing technology, we aim to boost productivity, enhance the positive impacts of our processes, and ensure efficiency across all project stages.
Furthermore, with innovative business models, we can make the value chain of our industry more resilient and secure while expanding sustainable infrastructure solutions globally. I firmly believe that through collective ideas and collaboration, we can implement meaningful actions that benefit both our industry and the world.”
Ebru Ozdemir’s leadership of the Engineering and Construction Industry Group at the WEF highlights not only her personal achievements but also underscores the growing influence of Turkish companies on the global stage.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök