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Hamdi Ulukaya, the founder and CEO of U.S.-based dairy company Chobani, has been reappointed to serve a second term as chair of the U.S.-Türkiye Business Council, which operates under the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the council announced on Friday.
The U.S.-Türkiye Business Council facilitates dialogue and cooperation between the American and Turkish business communities, aiming to expand commercial ties and investment opportunities across sectors.
In a statement, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark praised Ulukaya’s contributions, noting that his leadership and commitment to innovation have been critical in advancing bilateral ties.
"We are thrilled that he will continue to lead the U.S.-Türkiye Business Council, especially as we work to develop new investment opportunities for global businesses and foster economic growth in both countries with Türkiye as a strategic hub to access Europe, Middle East, Africa and Central Asia," Clark said.
Since taking the role in 2023, Ulukaya has overseen major initiatives, including the resumption of the U.S.-Türkiye Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) discussions after a seven-year hiatus. The platform facilitates private sector input into trade negotiations and investment policy.
According to the chamber, Ulukaya’s leadership has helped energize efforts toward achieving the $100 billion bilateral trade goal set by the two countries’ presidents in 2019.
Ulukaya expressed his pride in continuing the role, adding that the council can play a key part in strengthening trade ties between the two countries. “Together, we have a chance to build stronger bridges, share knowledge, and create real impact for our industries, our communities, and the world we all share—there is no limit to what we can achieve,” he said.
Born in 1972 in Erzincan, Türkiye, Hamdi Ulukaya founded Chobani in 2005 and has since grown the company to capture over 20% of the U.S. yogurt market, with annual revenue reaching $3 billion as of 2025.
Known as the "yogurt king" in the U.S, he is also ranked by Forbes as the 11th wealthiest Turkish individual, with a net worth of over $2.3 billion.
He recently drew public attention for a $117 million sponsorship deal between Chobani and Turkish sports club Fenerbahce. The agreement includes stadium naming rights and European competition kit sponsorship over five years.
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