ISTANBUL--APCO has named Zeynep Dereli as MD of its new Istanbul office.

Prior to joining APCO, Dereli was general coordinator and founding member of the Istanbul think tank Turkish Policy Forum, and founding partner of Glow Communications. She also served as director of the Atlantic Council's Black Sea Energy and Economic Forum, an annual initiative that brings business and policy leaders together to discuss Eurasia's leading economic and energy challenges.

"After a decade of exceptional GDP growth rates, Turkey plays an increasingly important role in global geopolitics and international economic growth," said APCO CEO Margery Kraus. "APCO's continued investment in Turkey will be vital in ensuring the firm's long-term, sustainable business success."

Dereli has been an active voice in politics since the March 2009 Turkish elections, when she won a seat at the county council in Istanbul Sisli Municipality. She also previously produced and presented a weekly foreign policy program, "Leaders and Decisions," on the Turkish nationwide television news channel SKY Turk and CNBC-e.

"Zeynep will be a valuable resource in providing our clients with high-level, local counsel on the changing policy environment in Turkey," said APCO international president Brad Staples. "She brings a deep understanding of the structure and mechanics of Turkish government and media, as well as strong relationships that will help companies engage successfully with their networks of stakeholders."