Ebru Pakcan

Overview

Ebru Pakcan was appointed Chief Operating Officer for International and Legacy Franchises at Citi, effective August 2026. In this role, she oversees operating effectiveness, governance, and the continued wind-down of legacy businesses, while supporting growth across Citi's core franchises.

Pakcan has led Citi's Middle East and Africa (MEA) business for the past five years, during which the firm reported double-digit growth and expanded its presence across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. She brings deep international and product management experience, with a track record of executing complex change across senior global roles, including Global Head of Trade, Global Head of Payments and Head of Treasury and Trade Solutions for EMEA.

Career History

• Chief Operating Officer for International and Legacy Franchises, Citi (August 2026–present)
• Middle East and Africa Cluster and Banking Head, Citi (2021–2026)
• EMEA Global Transaction Banking Head, Citi (2016–2020)
• Global Head of Foreign Trade and Trade Products, Citi
• Regional and global roles in Global Transaction Banking, Citi (began in Turkey)

Education & Background

Pakcan holds a degree in Computer Engineering from Bogazici University in Istanbul, Turkey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering between 1993–1997. Her skill set includes expertise in Payments, Business Analysis, Leadership, and Trade.

Recognition & Involvement

Following her appointment as head of Treasury and Trade Solutions, Ebru joined Citi's executive committee for the region and was one of four women out of 22 members. She is heavily involved in talent development and diversity agenda, actively promoting female diversity and inclusion through mentorship and coaching.

What Ebru Pakcan Could Bring to COO International and Legacy Franchises at Citi

Pakcan's appointment reflects her proven ability to drive operational excellence across complex, geographically dispersed markets. Her five-year tenure leading the MEA region—delivering double-digit growth across 59 markets—demonstrates strong execution capabilities and ability to manage large-scale operating frameworks. Her background spanning global product leadership in Trade, Payments, and Treasury positions her uniquely to optimize operating effectiveness while overseeing legacy business wind-downs. Additionally, her track record in executing complex organizational change and her commitment to governance and controls align strategically with the role's mandate to enhance disciplined execution across Citi's global network.