Mehmet Önkal

Mehmet Önkal has more than 40 years of significant experience in tourism industry. He is an expert especially in investment consultancy, asset management, market research and feasibility studies, appraisals and valuations, hotel brands, management/franchise/lease/technical services agreements, legal support, expert witness, arbitration and hotel management.

Prior to joining BDO Turkey team, after working for Arthur Andersen and Co in London, UK for five years, Mehmet established the Istanbul branch of the Firm in 1975, and worked as Audit and General Manager. Later on he worked as the Financial Controller of Istanbul Sheraton Hotel, Regional Fiancial Controller for Turkey and East Mediterranean, and subsequently as Vice President Asia Pacific Division of ITT Sheraton International Inc. in Hong Kong. After returning to Turkey he worked as Group Hotels Manager of Ten Tur Tourism, Assistant Tourism Coordinator and General Manager of Yonca Tourism of Doğuş Holding, General Manager of Princess Hotels. In April 1997 he joined BDO Turkey team and currently manages BDO Hospitality Consulting as Managing Partner and Chairman.

Mehmet Önkal is a frequent speaker at national and international tourism industry conferences.  He was awarded the ''Lifetime Achievement'' award in CATHIC Conference in 2014 due to his contributions tot he tourism industry and experience.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Certifed Hotel Administrator (CHA) of American Hotel and Lodging Association

Supreme Advisory Comitee of Turkish Tourism Investors Association

SKAL International

EDUCATION

B.A. in Accounting and Finance, Robert College, Istanbul

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Cercle d'Orient Büyük Kulüp Association