Global Director of Wellness Development - Joali 

The coveted combination of luxury hospitality and wellness credentials has given Özgür a leg up in the industry. Özgür's illustrious career in the luxury hospitality and wellness industry began at the Ritz-Carlton in Istanbul, where he was instrumental in its successful opening in 2001. Recognising the immense growth potential of the sector, he embarked on a management journey that allowed him to hone his expertise in luxury hospitality operations. This journey took him to the Maldives, where he further honed his skills at One&Only Reethi Rah and later served as Resort Manager at JOALI Maldives. In particular, Özgür played a key role as General Manager in the development and launch of JOALI BEING, the Maldives' first island dedicated to wellness. This innovative project showcased his operational ingenuity and strategic vision, creating transformative guest experiences that redefined wellness tourism in the Maldives.

Before arriving in the Maldives, Özgür demonstrated his innovative leadership in Turkey, opening Richmond Nua Wellness, the country's first pioneering wellness resort, in 2005. He then spent seven years at Hillside Beach Club, managing the wellness and leisure operations and transforming the spa into a leading wellness retreat concept. His career also includes overseeing the wellness and leisure offering at the Jumeirah Bilgah Beach Hotel in Baku and managing wellness operations at One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership. In eight years with the JOALI brand, Özgür has led project and operations teams, ensuring timely openings and providing top-notch service.

Beyond his professional achievements, Özgür is a respected figure in international wellness circles. He is an ambassador of the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) and participates as a speaker at prestigious wellness events. He is also a member of the judging panel of the World Spa & Wellness Awards.