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Olcay Ay
Head Of Mobile at JotForm
Professional Background
Olcay Ay is a seasoned software developer with over a decade of extensive experience in mobile technology, particularly within the vibrant startup ecosystem. For the past six years, he has been intimately involved with various VC-backed startups, honing his skills and taking the lead in mobile teams that have developed applications boasting millions of downloads. His diverse professional journey encompasses leadership roles, including his current position as the Head of Mobile at JotForm, reflecting his deep expertise in mobile app development and his penchant for innovation.
His career path has allowed him to collaborate with several renowned organizations. Notable among them is App Samurai, part of the prestigious Techstars and 500 Startups accelerators, where Olcay contributed significantly to the company's success in app marketing technologies. At Connected2.me, also a 500 Startups B11 venture, he served as the Android Team Lead, further solidifying his leadership credentials in the mobile domain. His role as Engineering Manager and Office Lead for the Turkey branch of Scorebeyond, which was successfully acquired by LinkedIn, showcases his ability to navigate high-stakes environments and contribute to big accomplishments.
In addition to his professional achievements, Olcay is deeply committed to fostering community engagement within the Turkish startup and developer ecosystems. He serves as the co-organizer of Mobile Monday Ankara, where he helps bring together mobile technology enthusiasts and professionals for knowledge sharing and collaboration. Furthermore, as the curator of Startup Digest Ankara, he actively promotes and highlights emerging trends and opportunities in the startup landscape, contributing to the growth and visibility of local ventures. His past role as co-organizer of Google Developer Group Ankara further exemplifies his dedication to driving innovation and skill development within the tech community.
Education and Achievements
Olcay Ay's educational background includes notable achievements at Samsun Tülay Başaran Anadolu Lisesi, where he graduated with a distinguished average of 4.80 in Science. He subsequently pursued a higher education degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Hacettepe University, earning a GPA of 2.92. While his academic performance demonstrates a solid foundational knowledge, it is his practical experience in software development and leadership that has defined his professional success.
In his early career, Olcay laid the groundwork as a Software Design Engineer at Karel Electronics, where he gained valuable industry experience. His diverse work history also includes roles outside the tech sector, such as working as a Ride Operator at Story Land, and a position with Sitka Sound Seafoods Inc. These experiences have enriched his perspective, enabling him to approach challenges with a unique blend of creativity and practicality.
Achievements
Olcay's impressive portfolio highlights his contributions to various startups, with a focus on developing mobile applications that resonate with users. His tenure at Scorebeyond, which secured acquisition by LinkedIn, is a testament to his high-caliber skills in software engineering and team management. Leading talented mobile teams, he has successfully navigated the intricacies of startup dynamics, leveraging opportunities for growth and innovation.
His involvement with leading tech organizations has not only showcased his technical prowess but also his commitment to empowering others in the tech community. By co-organizing events like Mobile Monday Ankara, Olcay helps facilitate networking, mentorship, and learning opportunities for aspiring developers and entrepreneurs. As he looks towards his goal of funding his own startup, Olcay continues to be a proactive member of the Turkish startup scene, inspiring the next generation of innovators in mobile technology and beyond.