Risk Management is an ever-evolving field that requires resilience, strategic foresight, and a deep understanding of global challenges. For Özge Koç Güngör, the Global Risk & Insurance Director at COREX HOLDING, the journey into this dynamic industry was unexpected yet transformative. With a background in Chemical Engineering from ODTÜ/METU and an MBA earned on a scholarship, she stepped into the corporate world without initially envisioning a career in risk management. However, her innate curiosity and adaptability led her to embrace the complexities of this field, shaping her into a leader who now influences global risk strategies.
Her career has spanned various facets of risk management, including enterprise risk, insurance, internal audit, process management, sustainability, compliance and ethics management. Having worked on the broker, consulting, and client sides, she has gained a multi-dimensional perspective that informs her leadership approach. In addition to her professional role, she has served as a Board Member of KRYD Turkey for the past six years. KRYD (Kurumsal Risk Yönetim Derneği), a member of FERMA (Federation of European Risk Management Associations), plays a pivotal role in advancing risk management practices across the region. The association promotes education, fosters collaboration among industry professionals, and advocates for the adoption of best practices in enterprise risk management. Through her active involvement with KRYD, she and fellow board members engage with risk leaders from diverse sectors, contribute to thought leadership initiatives, and support efforts aimed at strengthening resilience and raising risk awareness on both national and international platforms. With nearly two decades of experience, Özge Koç Güngör has played a pivotal role in transforming risk management practices at major organizations. She has led initiatives that integrate sustainability, technology, and strategic insurance programs, ensuring resilience in volatile situations. Her journey highlights not just the challenges of risk management but also its potential as a driver of innovation and growth.
The Journey into Risk Management: An Unexpected Path to Leadership
Özge Koç Güngör’s journey into risk management began with an element of chance. Freshly graduated from ODTÜ/METU with a degree in Chemical Engineering, she found herself stepping into the field of risk management without a clear understanding of what it entailed. The allure of working for an American corporation, dressing in corporate attire, and being part of a structured professional environment was compelling. However, reality quickly set in when she found herself on construction sites, wearing steel-toe boots and coveralls, navigating high-risk industrial environments.
This contrast between expectation and reality became the foundation of her career. Instead of being deterred by the challenges, Özge Koç Güngör embraced them. Over time, she developed a passion for the field, recognizing that risk management was not just about mitigating threats but about identifying opportunities. Her ability to adapt, learn, and immerse herself in different aspects of risk management helped her grow into a strategic leader with expertise spanning multiple industries.
Her career has taken her through various roles, allowing her to see risk management from different perspectives. Whether working on the brokerage side, in consultancy, or within corporate risk departments, she has built a wealth of knowledge that informs her approach today. Her leadership is defined by curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning—qualities that have positioned her as a key figure in the industry.
The Challenges of Risk Management at COREX HOLDING
Risk managers operate in one of the most challenging roles in any organization. They must effectively communicate risks to stakeholders who are experts in their respective fields while also influencing decision-making at the highest levels. At COREX HOLDING, Özge Koç Güngör faces unique challenges due to the company’s diverse global presence, spanning industries such as mining, metals, and port operations. Some of the most significant challenges include:
Geopolitical and Economic Uncertainty
Operating in multiple regions means navigating political instability, economic fluctuations, and regulatory changes. Managing these risks requires a proactive approach, ensuring that the company remains resilient in volatile environments.
Diverse Local Practices and Regulatory Environments
Each country presents its own regulatory challenges, making compliance a complex task. Özge Koç Güngör and her team work closely with legal and compliance departments to ensure that COREX HOLDING meets all necessary regulations while maintaining operational efficiency.
Climate and Sustainability Risks
With increasing global focus on sustainability, risk management must now integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations. COREX HOLDING is committed to addressing climate-related risks by implementing sustainable practices and ensuring regulatory compliance in environmental matters.
To navigate these challenges, Özge Koç Güngör emphasizes a data-driven and forward-looking risk strategy. By leveraging risk assessments, due diligences, and strategic insurance programs, COREX HOLDING ensures that it remains agile and prepared for emerging risks.
The Evolution of Risk Management: Trends and Future Outlook
The landscape of risk management has changed dramatically over the years. Looking at historical data from the WEF Global Risks Report, a clear shift in global risk perception is evident. A decade ago, economic concerns such as fiscal crises, unemployment, and asset bubbles dominated the conversation. Over time, the focus has shifted to cyber threats, geopolitical tensions, and climate-related risks. Today, challenges such as biodiversity loss, societal polarization, and AI-driven disruptions are taking center stage.
As the world becomes more interconnected, risk management strategies must evolve accordingly. Özge Koç Güngör emphasizes the importance of proactive, cross-disciplinary approaches that incorporate foresight, agility, and technological innovation. Businesses that successfully integrate these elements into their risk frameworks will be best positioned to navigate an increasingly unpredictable future.
Proactive Risk Mitigation Strategies
At COREX HOLDING, risk mitigation is not just a reactive function but a strategic pillar of the business. Özge’s approach to proactive risk management includes:
- Integrated Risk and Insurance Programs: Developing centralized insurance strategies to optimize coverage and cost efficiency.
- Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Ensuring that risk awareness is embedded within all levels of the organization.
- Continuous Stakeholder Engagement: Maintaining open communication with internal teams and external partners to stay ahead of emerging risks.
By embedding risk awareness into the corporate culture, COREX HOLDING ensures that risk management is a shared responsibility across all business functions.
Women in Leadership: Shaping the Future of Risk Management
As a woman in a leadership position, Özge Koç Güngör brings a unique perspective to risk management. Women often approach risk from a holistic, collaborative, and empathetic standpoint, which can be a significant advantage in today’s complex business environment. Her leadership style emphasizes inclusivity, mentorship, and resilience.
To aspiring women leaders in risk management, Özge Koç Güngör offers the following advice:
- Build a Strong Knowledge Foundation – Continuously enhance expertise through education and hands-on experience.
- Develop Confidence – Trust in your ability to contribute meaningfully, even in male-dominated spaces.
- Foster Resilience – View challenges as learning opportunities rather than setbacks.
- Seek Mentorship and Networking Opportunities – Building strong professional relationships can accelerate career growth.
- Take Initiative – Speak up, propose solutions, and actively participate in decision-making.
- Stay Passionate and Purpose-Driven – Let your passion for risk management drive your career forward. With more women stepping into leadership roles, the industry is evolving towards a more balanced and dynamic future.
With more women stepping into leadership roles, the industry is evolving towards a more balanced and dynamic future.
Driving Innovation in Risk Management
Technology plays a crucial role in modern risk management, and COREX HOLDING is at the forefront of leveraging innovation. Digital platforms, AI, and machine learning are transforming how risks are assessed and mitigated. Özge Koç Güngör has been instrumental in driving technological advancements, ensuring that risk management is not just reactive but predictive.
One of her most impactful projects was the launch of a Global Innovative Insurance Program. This initiative centralized insurance for over 55 companies across 50 countries, leading to a 50% cost reduction and enhanced risk awareness. This project has received industry-wide recognition in Europe, including being named a finalist for FERMA’s Global Innovative Insurance Programme and earning a nomination for ‘Woman of the Year in Global Insurance’.
Future Goals and Legacy
Özge’s long-term vision is to shape the future of risk management by:
- Mentoring Future Risk Leaders – Supporting the next generation of risk professionals, particularly women.
- Promoting Sustainability and ESG Integration – Driving risk strategies that align with sustainable business practices.
- Leveraging AI and Data Analytics – Advancing risk detection and decision-making through technology.
- Embedding Risk Awareness Across Organizations – Making risk management a core business function rather than a standalone department.
- Sharing Knowledge and Thought Leadership – Contributing insights through public speaking, industry panels, and publications.
She continues to actively engage with the global risk communities, including speaking at major industry events such as the Axco Global Insurance Summit in April 2025 in London.
Özge Koç Güngör’s journey in risk management is a testament to adaptability, leadership, and strategic thinking. Her experiences across multiple industries, combined with her commitment to innovation and mentorship, position her as a leading voice in the field. As risk management continues to evolve, leaders like Özge Koç Güngör will play a crucial role in shaping its future—ensuring that businesses are not just protected from risks but are empowered by them.
