Fethi Şimşek
The visionary behind KEF Investment Group
Fethi Şimşek is a Turkish educator, entrepreneur, and visionary founder whose four-decade career has shaped the modern education landscape in Turkey and expanded into a diversified investment legacy.
Timeline
1980s - The Beginning
His journey began when he founded his first educational institution from the ground up. Starting as a chemistry teacher, Şimşek built his early organizations through hands-on dedication -teaching, managing operations, and personally supporting the daily functioning of the institution. This foundation defined his lifelong belief in building systems, developing talent, and creating sustainable institutions.
1990s - International Expansion
He expanded internationally by acquiring English Time, beginning with its London presence in the United Kingdom. What started as an educational initiative evolved into one of Turkey's largest language school networks and a leading European brand in the sector.
2000s - Beykoz Doğa College
Şimşek launched one of his most iconic ventures: Beykoz Doğa College, a pioneering campus-based education model built within nature. Unlike conventional urban school structures, it introduced a holistic learning environment combining academics, sports, and student development at scale. Through scholarships and partnerships, many athletes who later played for Turkey's top basketball and volleyball clubs emerged from this vision.
2010s - Era College & Beyond
He continued his educational leadership through Era College, founded as a next-generation institution that has become one of Turkey's most technologically advanced and respected school networks. Beyond education, he expanded into healthcare, consumer brands, agriculture, and industrial ventures, reflecting a long-term strategic investment mindset.
“Known for empowering leadership teams rather than managing operations directly, Fethi Şimşek represents a rare founder model: an educator-turned-investor who builds institutions that function beyond the founder, creating enduring impact for Turkey's future generations.”
Legacy
Today, this legacy is carried forward through KEF Investment Group under the leadership of the second generation - Muhammed Kerem Şimşek and Fatih Şimşek - who continue to steward the family's long-term vision, global investment perspective, and founder-supportive approach.