Mehmet Koçyiğit Appointed as the New President of BTK

Ender Öztürk

September 1, 2026

In a significant leadership transition for Turkey’s telecommunications sector, Mehmet Koçyiğit has been officially appointed as the new President of the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK). The appointment, formalized through a presidential decree published in the Official Gazette, marks a new chapter for the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the nation’s internet and informatics infrastructure. Koçyiğit, who previously served as a Board Member at the agency, succeeds Ömer Abdullah Karagözoğlu. His extensive background in public administration and technical infrastructure management is expected to bring a strategic focus to the organization as it navigates complex digital transformation challenges.

Mehmet Koçyiğit Possesses a Strong Professional Background

Born in Sivas, Mehmet Koçyiğit built a solid academic foundation by graduating from the Anadolu University Faculty of Business Administration. He furthered his expertise by completing a master’s degree in business administration at the Turkish Aviation Association University’s Institute of Social Sciences. His academic pursuits have always been closely aligned with the practical requirements of public policy and technological management.

His career is defined by high-level responsibilities within the public sector, particularly in agencies that shape Turkey’s digital future. Between 2016 and 2020, he served as the Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, a role that required deep coordination across various telecommunications projects. Following this, he acted as a Consultant for the Ministry between 2020 and 2023, where he contributed to long-term strategy development for the country’s connectivity goals.

The New Leadership Faces Significant Regulatory Responsibilities

The appointment of Mehmet Koçyiğit comes at a time when the regulatory landscape is shifting rapidly. As a former member of the BTK board, Koçyiğit is already well-versed in the internal mechanisms and administrative protocols of the institution. This continuity is viewed by industry experts as a stabilizing factor, ensuring that ongoing projects are managed without disruption.

The telecommunications sector is currently at a turning point, with major investments in 5G technology and national fiber infrastructure taking center stage. Beyond infrastructure, the new leadership team is tasked with strengthening cybersecurity measures to protect national data and ensuring that consumer rights remain a priority in an increasingly digital economy. The industry is closely monitoring how these strategic priorities will be executed under the new administration.

The Organization Continues Its Strategic Evolution

The transition within the BTK is not limited to the presidency; the institution has also undergone a broader renewal of its board memberships. This refreshment of the leadership team is aimed at aligning the agency with the latest global trends in digital regulation and service delivery. By integrating experienced figures who understand the technical nuances of the field, the agency aims to maintain its momentum in fostering a competitive and secure environment for all market players.

As the new President begins his term, the focus remains on enhancing the quality of service while promoting innovation within the electronic communications sector. The success of these initiatives will be critical to maintaining the growth of Turkey’s digital ecosystem in the coming years.

What are your expectations for the future of telecommunications and digital regulation under this new leadership? We invite you to share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below.