Creating a Flexible Work Environment: Insights from Gokhan, HR and Shared Services Director at Akkim Kimya San. Tic. A.S.

Gokhan Okutan, HR and Shared Services Director at Akkim Kimya San. Tic. A.S., brings over 34 years of diverse experience across multiple sectors, including automobile, production, FMCG, tourism, cargo and supply chain, and chemicals. As a key member of the leadership team, he oversees all company HR activities, leading a capable team of more than 100 professionals. Recently, Gokhan was honored with the global inclusive talent leadership award by Software Verdict, recognizing his exceptional contributions to talent management and leadership development. Software Verdict had the opportunity to speak with him about his strategies for creating a flexible work environment in today’s dynamic talent landscape.

 

Building Leadership Excellence and Fostering an Inclusive Workplace

“Leadership development is a cornerstone of our HR strategy,” says Gokhan. This focus on leadership is evident in Akkim’s robust Learning and Development (L&D) programs designed to equip leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to excel. The Akkim Campus Training Model plays a crucial role in this, offering training across five faculties: Innovation, Sales, Leadership, Technical, and Digital Transformation. Over the past three years, the number of training programs has increased by 35% in terms of person-hours, reflecting Akkim’s commitment to continuous growth and excellence.

At Akkim, the Human Resources mission is driven by the philosophy of ‘People First,’ aiming to sustain an organization of competent and dedicated employees. “Our vision is to create an ideal workplace for working and developing, becoming an employer brand preferred by all,” Gokhan explains. This vision is brought to life through a series of innovative practices, including the “4-day work per week” initiative, a hybrid working model, and a sabbatical leave application. These initiatives are designed to enhance employee well-being, foster work-life balance, and make Akkim an attractive employer.

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive Skill Development and Employee Wellness

Akkim’s training programs are designed to meet diverse needs. The Innovation Faculty offers workshops on creative problem-solving, innovative leadership, and thinking. The Sales Faculty provides training on market and competition analysis, managing major clients, and negotiation skills. The Technical Faculty focuses on micro-trainings that enhance business processes and performance, including regulations, workplace safety, and machinery operation. The Leadership Faculty aims to develop leadership skills at all managerial levels, with programs like ‘Leader at Work’ and collaborations with institutions like Sabancı University. This year, the Digital Transformation Faculty was launched, providing AI-supported training programs that align with future projections and business processes.

Akkim places significant emphasis on employee wellness and personal development. “Our wellness programs are aimed at improving the quality of life, thereby increasing productivity,” Gokhan notes. These programs include activities like tennis, yoga, face yoga training, and a Sailing Club, which has achieved numerous trophy successes over the years. Additionally, employees have access to weekly in-person meetings with a dietician, free psychological counseling, and various other wellness applications. By offering these programs, Akkim ensures that employees are not only productive but also motivated and engaged.

 

Investing in Future Talent and Shaping Organizational Culture

Akkim’s commitment to future talent is demonstrated through initiatives like the Akkim Scholarship and the Good Future Long-Term Internship Program. “Since 1996, our scholarship program has supported nearly 200 students, with a female recipient rate of 55% as of 2022,” Gokhan highlights. The internship program offers final-year and graduate students practical experience, with many transitioning to permanent positions. Since 2020, 50 young talents have been given long-term internship opportunities, with seven securing full-time roles. These programs reflect Akkim’s dedication to nurturing young talent and investing in the future workforce.

Looking ahead, Akkim is launching the ‘Culture and Corporate Development Project’ to attract and retain top talent. “This project aims to build bridges between our past experiences, current practices, and future strategies,” Gokhan explains. It will help identify and strengthen the factors that differentiate Akkim from competitors, shaping the company’s cultural codes and communication strategy. Additionally, Akkim is collaborating with AÇEV (Mother Child Education Foundation) to design vocational training programs that help women in the region acquire new skills and professions, contributing to societal development.

Through these comprehensive and innovative strategies, Akkim Kimya San. Tic. A.S. is not only creating a flexible and inclusive work environment but also setting new benchmarks in talent management and organizational development.