After three years in store operations, she transitioned to the head office, taking on various operational roles before joining the leadership team in 2011 as Operations Development Manager.

In 2013, she accepted an opportunity with their Central Europe team and relocated to Hungary as a Program Manager, responsible for leading change programs across five countries.

In 2018 she was appointed as Business Support Director and after 6 months she also took the accountability of their Grocery Home Shopping Channel. Just before COVID, Banu moved to the commercial function as Transformation & Strategy Director – a new challenge after 16 years of operational experience.

After setting the commercial strategy, she was appointed Commercial Director six months later, leading the function through the challenges of COVID, the Ukraine–Russia war, and a highly inflationary environment.

In 2023 she was appointed as COO with accountability for their stores, distribution centers, supply chain, Grocery Home Shopping Business, leading all change and transformation programs of the business.

Banu truly enjoys her current role as it gives her the opportunity to lead the supplier to customer value chain end to end.
 

1. When did you arrive in Hungary and what brought you here?

I moved to Hungary in 2013 after receiving an opportunity to join Tesco’s Central European team as a Program Manager. At that point in my career, I was really looking to grow in an international environment, gain broader exposure, and work with diverse teams, so it felt like a natural next step.

2. Have you ever been an expatriate elsewhere?

No, this has been my only expatriate experience so far, but it has given me a strong foundation in adapting to a new culture and working in an international setting.

3. What surprised you most about Hungary?

What stood out to me most was the depth of the culture — especially the language. It’s incredibly unique and quite different from other European languages, which made the experience both challenging and fascinating.

4. Friends are in Budapest for the weekend - what must they absolutely see and do? 

I’d recommend starting with Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, the Castle District, Chain Bridge, and Heroes’ Square—they really capture the essence of the city. If they have extra time, a trip to Lake Balaton is definitely worth it for a completely different experience.

5. What is your favourite Hungarian food?

Chicken Paprikash — it’s a classic, very comforting, and full of flavor.

6. What is never missing from your refrigerator?

Yogurt is something I always have in my refrigerator — it’s simple, versatile, and part of my daily routine.

7. What is your favourite Hungarian word?

“Tök jó!” I like it because it’s short, expressive, and you can use it in so many situations.

8. What do you miss most from home? 

I miss my family and friends the most—that’s always the hardest part of living abroad. From a food perspective, I really miss fresh fish, as Turkey offers an amazing variety that’s hard to find elsewhere.

9. What career other than yours would you love to pursue?

I would have pursued molecular biology engineering, as I’ve always been fascinated by genetics and how things work at a fundamental level. I was also very interested in forensic science, combining science with real-world problem solving.

10. What's a job you would definitely never want?

I would avoid roles that are highly repetitive and don’t allow for creativity or problem-solving, as I enjoy learning and adding value in more dynamic environments.

11. Where did you spend your last vacation?

My last vacation was a road trip in Italy, which I really enjoyed — it was a great mix of culture, food, and exploring different places at my own pace.

12. Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?

For my next holiday, I’d choose somewhere quiet, surrounded by nature—just to disconnect from daily routines and fully recharge.

13. Apart from temptation what can't you resist?

I can’t resist good food, especially Turkish cuisine — it’s something I always go back to.

14. What was your favourite band, film, or hobby as a teen?

As a teenager, I loved The Beatles — they were my favorite band. I also had a hobby of collecting stamps and currencies from different countries, which reflects my interest in cultures. My favorite film was The Green Mile.

15. Red or white?

White — I tend to prefer it for its simplicity and freshness.

16. Books or films?

Books — I enjoy the depth and perspective they offer, although I do appreciate a good film as well.

17. Morning person or night person?

I’m definitely a morning person. I usually start my day around 7:00, which helps me stay productive and structured.

18. Which social issue do you feel most strongly about?

Gender equality is something I feel strongly about. It’s quite personal to me, shaped by my experiences growing up and building a career in male-dominated environments, so it’s an issue I care deeply about.

19. Buda or Pest?

Buda — I appreciate its calmer, more balanced atmosphere compared to the busier side of the city.

20. What would you say is your personal motto?

One quote I really relate to is, “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” For me, it represents resilience and the importance of growing through challenges rather than avoiding them.