Merih Kepez is a renowned global strategist, business diplomat, and expert in international economic relations. As the Founder of MARS & KAIROS, a strategic consulting firm specializing in global advocacy, diplomacy, and business intelligence, she leverages over two decades of experience in high-level negotiations, economic engagement, and policy shaping to bridge markets, influence global policy, and foster cross-border partnerships.

Merih’s career began at the Permanent Mission of Türkiye to the United Nations in New York, where she helped secure Türkiye’s non-permanent membership on the UN Security Council. During this time, she also worked as a reporter for UN Radio, gaining firsthand insight into international diplomatic narratives and global governance.

Merih was at the forefront of Türkiye’s international economic diplomacy at the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEİK) for 15 years, seven of which she served as Deputy Secretary General of the organization. In this role, she spearheaded high-stakes negotiations, global trade initiatives, and strategic dialogues between policymakers, multinational corporations, and government leaders.

Her expertise in shaping bilateral and multilateral economic relations has also been evident in her leadership at the Turkish-American Business Council (TAİK), where she drove private sector engagement with U.S. policymakers, strengthening transatlantic trade and investment.

Merih also conducted extensive research on various methods of including Türkiye within the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), as well as her advocacy to influence trade policy. She was instrumental in organizing flagship global investment forums, including the annual Türkiye-U.S. Relations Conferences (in partnership with the American-Turkish Council & U.S. Chamber of Commerce) and Türkiye Investment Conferences (hosted by Goldman Sachs & Citibank in New York).

Beyond the U.S., she has worked closely with government agencies, business councils, and multinational organizations across Europe, the Americas, and Asia Pacific, facilitating high-level economic diplomacy and investment promotion initiatives. Her leadership has been particularly instrumental in the organization and advocacy of the global Turkish diaspora. 

Merih’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, coupled with a deep understanding of trade policy and economic diplomacy, positions her as a trusted advisor for multinational corporations, governments, and organizations seeking to expand their global reach, manage international relations, and shape impactful policies.

Merih holds a BA in Global & International Affairs from the Dual-Diploma Program between Boğaziçi University and SUNY Binghamton University. She is fluent in Turkish, English, and Spanish.