Utkan Menteş

My passion for technology and problem-solving began long before artificial intelligence (AI) became a buzzword. With a background in BSc, MSc, and PhD education in Industrial Engineering, plus an MBA, I quickly realized that data-driven decision-making could transform businesses. This realization shaped my career, leading me to the intersection of AI, advanced analytics, and corporate strategy.

Pioneering AI in Corporate and Startup Worlds

Over the past 15+ years, I’ve worked in both corporate giants and fast-paced startups, leading AI-driven transformations. My corporate business experience started at Arcelik -one of the biggest global manufacturer of white goods- as System Development Engineer.

But i didn’t always stand in the comfort zone of Fortune 500 companies.I also had an outstanding journey to found an AI-powered startup Inoven AI, specializing in Image Recognition and Predictive Analytics. We secured multiple rounds of investment, collaborated with industry leaders, and were recognized as one of Turkey’s Top 100 Startups multiple times.

During this journey, I had the pleasure of building an AI team and developing great AI-based products called SnapBuy and Cognity. SnapBuy was a B2B visual search platform that enabled tech and e-commerce companies to implement Visual Search and Image Recognition technologies. It was a successful AI software product integrated into major corporations, including eBay.

Cognity was an AI-based mental healthcare app designed to assess Alzheimer’s and Dementia risk using Image Recognition technology and a remote cognitive test. It was a freemium mobile app developed by a team of AI scientists, software developers, and a neurology professor. Cognity successfully achieved product-market fit, being sold in five different countries. Unfortunately, due to unexpected profitability challenges and financial instability, I faced a very tough decision to end the great journey of Inoven AI.

I pursued my career at Yıldız Holding, one of Turkey’s largest conglomerates, as the Advanced Analytics Director. I built and led the Advanced Analytics division from the ground up, managing a team of 20 Data Scientists and AI Engineers. We developed and implemented AI and machine learning strategies that optimized operations, increased profitability, and enhanced decision-making across multiple business units.

My last corporate AI journey started at Hayat Holding in July 2024. Merging my AI organization and strategy-building know-how with a new experience in the finance sector sparked delightful excitement. I designed the AI strategy, built the organization, and led the execution process to start the AI transformation of Hayat Finans with a vision to become the first AI-focused digital bank.

A Data-Driven Vision for the Future

My expertise spans Data Science, AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Generative AI—not just in theory, but in real-world applications that drive measurable impact. Whether it’s transforming supply chain operations, optimizing sales strategies, or developing AI-based decision systems, I specialize in translating complex AI technologies into business value.

Beyond AI, I’m deeply passionate about mentorship, thought leadership, and knowledge-sharing. I’ve published research in international conferences, contributed to patents, and trained teams to bridge the gap between AI potential and practical implementation.

Why This Blog?

AI is not just a technology; it’s a strategic enabler for companies navigating the modern business landscape. Through this blog, I aim to share insights on:

• Corporate AI Strategy – How businesses can effectively integrate AI into their operations.
• AI in Decision-Making – Practical applications and use cases of AI & data-driven intelligence.
• Future Trends in AI – How emerging technologies are reshaping industries.

I believe AI should be accessible, actionable, and aligned with business goals. Whether you’re a business leader, an AI practitioner, or someone curious about AI’s role in corporate strategy, I invite you to join the conversation.

Let’s build AI-driven businesses—together.

Connect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/utkan-mentes

or by email, mail@utkanmentes.com