GSMA appoints Hakan Dursun as Chief Strategy Officer

The GSMA has announced the appointment of Hakan Dursun as Chief Strategy Officer (CSO).   Hakan will join the GSMA Leadership Team and lead the definition of the organisation’s strategic direction. He will also manage the activities of the GSMA Strategy Group - working with member C‑suite leaders to align the industry on critical priorities - and oversee GSMA Intelligence (GSMAi), the industry’s primary research and data powerhouse, working closely with Peter Jarich, Head of GSMAi. 

Based in London, Hakan brings more than 20 years of global leadership experience across the telecommunications, technology, and management consulting sectors. He has a track record of driving large-scale transformation and growth in Europe, the U.S., and the Middle East, having held multiple C-level positions focused on strategy, business development, and commercial functions. Throughout his career, he has managed multi-billion-dollar P&Ls and led digital initiatives across mobile, fixed, and TV services. 

“We are delighted to welcome Hakan as the GSMA’s Chief Strategy Officer,” Vivek Badrinath, Director General, GSMA, said. “As the industry’s priorities broaden and the pace of change accelerates, we need even greater focus on where we can deliver the most value for our members and the communities they serve. Hakan’s breadth of experience and proven ability to deliver transformation at scale will be invaluable as we continue to shape the future of connectivity." 

Hakan Dursun said: “I’m delighted to be joining the GSMA at a time when the mobile and connectivity ecosystem is more central than ever to economic growth, innovation, and societal progress. The GSMA plays a unique role in bringing the industry together and turning shared ambition into global impact. I look forward to working closely with the GSMA Board and members and together with Vivek and the Leadership Team, to translate long-term industry vision into clear strategic priorities and tangible outcomes, delivering meaningful impact for both the industry and society worldwide.” 

Prior to joining the GSMA, Hakan held senior leadership positions at Türk Telekom, British Telecom, and U.S.-based technology fund, TelcoDR. He began his career in management consulting at BCG.