Pinar Sancakli

Pinar is a Process Development Manager at Güney Agripark, specializing in biotechnology. Since earning her MBA from Kent in 2023, she has led innovative projects, including an EU initiative tackling water scarcity through sustainable plant species.

She credits Kent for shaping her teamwork, agile thinking, and sustainability awareness.

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

Since graduating, I have built my career around a strong focus on process development within the biotechnology field. I currently work as a Process Development Manager at a tissue culture lab, where I've had the privilege of leading innovative projects aimed at enhancing our production processes.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

My typical workday as a Process Development Manager at the tissue culture lab is quite dynamic and focused on continuous improvement. Each day begins with a morning team meeting where we discuss current projects, align our goals, and address any challenges we may be facing. This agile approach helps us stay responsive and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

After our meeting, I spend time analysing data and reviewing our production processes to identify opportunities for enhancement. This involves collaborating with my team to develop and implement strategies aimed at increasing efficiency and effectiveness in our operations.

Throughout the day, I also allocate time for training and mentoring team members, ensuring they have the support they need to grow in their roles. This commitment to fostering a collaborative and innovative team culture is essential to our success.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

One of the most significant highlights of my career so far has been my involvement in an EU project aimed at addressing water scarcity in agricultural regions. As the Process Development Manager at the tissue culture lab, I led a cross-functional team tasked with identifying sustainable plant species that could thrive in water-limited environments.

This project required extensive research, collaboration with stakeholders, and innovative problem-solving. I developed a framework for evaluating various plant species based on their water efficiency, growth potential, and adaptability to local conditions. The outcome was not only a comprehensive report that provided actionable recommendations for these countries but also the implementation of a pilot program that demonstrated the viability of our proposed solutions.

Seeing the positive impact of our work on communities facing water challenges was incredibly rewarding. It reinforced my belief in the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture and highlighted the role our lab plays in fostering innovative solutions to real-world problems. This experience has been pivotal in shaping my career and has motivated me to continue pursuing projects that blend science with social responsibility.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

My time at the University of Kent was instrumental in shaping my career and equipping me with the necessary skills for my current role as a Process Development Manager. One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the importance of teamwork. Through various group projects and collaborative assignments, I gained a deeper understanding of how effective communication and cooperation are crucial for achieving common goals.

Additionally, my MBA experience instilled in me a strong awareness of sustainability and the importance of agile methodologies. I learned how adopting an agile approach can enhance responsiveness and flexibility in projects, which is essential in today’s fast-paced environment. These skills have not only helped me in executing projects effectively but also in fostering a culture of innovation within my team. 

Overall, the knowledge and experiences I gained at Kent have been vital in my professional journey. They provided me with a solid foundation in teamwork, agile practices, and sustainability awareness, all of which played a significant role in securing my current position and performing successfully in it.

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

Work on Team Skills : Teamwork is key in our industry. Practice collaborating with others and communicating effectively, as these skills will make you a strong asset in any organization.

Learn Agile Practices : Familiarize yourself with agile methodologies. Being flexible and adaptable is crucial in today’s fast-changing work environment.

Focus on Sustainability : Stay informed about sustainable practices in biotechnology. Understanding how to promote sustainability can set you apart from the crowd.

Network : Attend industry events and connect with professionals. Building a network can lead to opportunities and provide you with insights into the field.

Keep Learning : Never stop expanding your knowledge. Whether through formal education or self-study, staying curious and informed will keep you competitive in your career.

By focusing on these areas, you'll be well-prepared for a successful career in this exciting field!

Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities as a student?

Yes, I was actively involved in extracurricular activities during my time at university. I joined the tennis club, where I played twice a week. This experience was not only enjoyable but also a great way to meet a diverse group of people from different professional backgrounds. Engaging in sports like tennis helped me develop teamwork and communication skills, and it also provided a nice balance to my academic workload. Building connections through these interactions was invaluable, as they often led to meaningful friendships and professional networking opportunities. Plus, it was a great way to relieve stress and stay active.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Kent?

Absolutely! One of my favourite memories from my time at university is hard to narrow down because there are so many great moments. However, a standout experience was our trip to Greece, where we collaborated with local companies on a project. This visit was invaluable, as we learned first-hand about their operations, management styles, and business practices. 

It was fascinating to gain insider knowledge and see how different cultures approach business challenges. Plus, the trip brought our cohort closer together; we had a fantastic time exploring Greece, trying new foods, and bonding over shared experiences. This combination of learning and fun truly made it a memorable highlight of my university days.

Is there anything you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

If I could repeat my time at Kent, I think I would take more advantage of networking opportunities and events. While I did engage with various activities, I believe I could have been more proactive in connecting with alumni and industry professionals.

Additionally, I would explore a wider range of extracurricular activities beyond the tennis club. Participating in different clubs or organizations could have provided even more diverse experiences and skills that would benefit me in my career.

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics?

Yes, I’m still in touch with several fellow alumni and academics from Kent. One of the highlights was when I travelled to the UK in 2024 to attend a summer school. This experience gave me the opportunity to reconnect with them in person, which was fantastic. It was great to catch up, share our experiences since graduation, and discuss how our careers have evolved. Maintaining these relationships has been valuable for both personal growth and professional networking. It's always inspiring to hear about the diverse paths my peers have taken.

What are your future ambitions?

Looking ahead, my future ambitions revolve around both personal and professional growth. I aim to deepen my expertise in process development and contribute to innovative solutions in the biotechnology field, particularly focusing on sustainability.

In the long term, I would like to take on greater leadership responsibilities, potentially moving into a senior management position where I can influence strategic decisions and drive impactful projects.

Moreover, I hope to remain engaged with academic institutions like Kent, possibly collaborating on research initiatives or guest speaking to students. Ultimately, my goal is to make a meaningful impact in both my career and the broader community while continually learning and evolving in my field.