“The solutions already exist. It’s about knowing which questions to ask.”

This sentiment, attributed to Oscar Wilde, resonates strongly in the world of finance and leadership. It is also a mantra that defines the professional path of Cem Buyukkaya, Chief Investment and Finance Officer at Dream International. His journey has been marked by a deep curiosity, strategic thinking, and a commitment to elevating the global luxury hospitality experience.

Cem’s story is not just one of financial success but of blending personal passion with strategic execution. From his early years at PwC to leading financial strategies at a global hospitality powerhouse, Cem has consistently demonstrated an ability to turn ideas into thriving ventures, all while staying grounded in a love for exceptional experiences.

From Early Aspirations to Industry Leadership

Cem’s career began at PwC, where he built a solid foundation in finance. However, it was his move to Doğuş Group that set the stage for his transformation into a strategic investment leader. Working within one of Turkey’s most influential conglomerates, Cem quickly became involved in high-stakes mergers and acquisitions, partnering with leaders across hospitality, media, and retail sectors.

Under the mentorship of influential figures like Eryigit Umur and Mustafa Sayir, he sharpened his skills in investment strategy and learned the power of leadership grounded in collaboration. While the financial world captivated him, it was his personal love for the Mediterranean lifestyle—rich in design, gastronomy, and maritime culture—that led him to the hospitality sector.

Cem began contributing to projects that intersected his professional expertise with his personal interests. The inclusive culture at Doğuş Group allowed him to explore this passion while climbing the corporate ladder. When the Group began expanding into global hospitality, Cem was ideally positioned to lead at the forefront.

Steering the Financial Vision at Dream International

By 2019, Dream International had attracted new investment partners and was evolving into a globally recognized name in luxury hospitality. Cem stepped into the role of Chief Investment and Finance Officer, taking on responsibility for strategic financial oversight from the company’s London office.

Today, he manages the financial backbone of a restaurant portfolio that spans over 90 locations across 15 countries. These include some of the world’s most celebrated luxury dining brands such as Zuma, Amazonico, Nusret, Roka, and Coya.

Dream International’s mission is to offer more than premium meals—it aims to deliver transformative experiences. Under the leadership of Chairman Ferit Şahenk and CEO Jean Francois Casanova, the company continues to expand into new markets with bold creativity and disciplined execution.

“In our business, there’s no room for compromise,” Cem states. “Service has to be flawless, but we must also stay agile in the face of constant market changes.”

Fueling Innovation and Embracing Change

Dream International has built its reputation not just through iconic venues, but through a mindset centered around innovation. New dining concepts, cutting-edge technologies, and immersive experiences are all part of the company’s strategy to stay relevant and ahead of consumer expectations.

For Cem, innovation also means using advanced tools like AI for reservations and data analysis. These technologies improve internal operations and allow the company to better understand guest preferences while keeping the human element intact.

“Luxury dining is about more than precision. It’s about connection,” he explains. “We use technology to elevate the guest journey, not to replace the personal touch.”

Meeting Challenges with Long-Term Strategy

Operating in the luxury segment presents constant challenges. Maintaining exceptional quality across multiple international locations requires consistent leadership, thoughtful investment, and operational excellence.

Cem’s approach is centered around sustainable growth. He emphasizes team development, brand strength, and financial resilience as essential to weathering uncertainty in the global economy.

“Financial discipline is critical. We monitor performance metrics daily—P&L, cash flow, operating margins—to stay on track without stifling our momentum,” he says.

His focus on long-term value extends to environmental and social responsibility. Dream International follows sustainable practices that reduce waste, optimize energy use, and limit emissions. These efforts align with the broader goals of the Doğuş Group, and Cem sees them as vital to the brand’s future relevance and integrity.

Creating Impact Beyond the Numbers

What sets Cem apart as a leader is not only his financial acumen but also his ability to align teams around a shared vision. Working closely with colleagues like COO Akin Tavuz and Chief Legal Counsel Ozlem Kavasoglu, he bridges legal, operational, and financial strategies to support the company’s ambitious expansion plans.

Much of his inspiration comes from CEO Jean Francois Casanova, whose emphasis on design, service, and innovation has shaped the group’s identity.

“Jean Francois has built a team where each individual brings something exceptional,” Cem notes. “It’s a place where creativity and structure coexist.”

Cem also plays a pivotal role in nurturing relationships with investors and global partners. As Dream International attracts institutional backing from sovereign wealth funds and private equity firms, maintaining trust and alignment becomes increasingly essential.

Blending Hospitality with Technology

Dream International’s success is rooted in its ability to balance luxury with operational efficiency. The company leverages digital platforms for real-time management of bookings, staff scheduling, and customer feedback.

With the support of Doğuş Technology, Cem has overseen the digital transformation of many internal systems. While the brand continues to innovate, it never loses sight of its emotional connection with guests.

“In our world, service must remain personal,” Cem insists. “Technology is a tool. The real magic happens when a guest walks away with a lasting memory.”

Staying Ahead in a Fast-Moving Industry

To keep Dream International future-ready, Cem prioritizes continuous learning. He builds connections across the hospitality and finance communities, and his ongoing Executive MBA program at Oxford University provides fresh insights into emerging trends and strategic leadership.

“I’m always learning—whether through global forums or classroom dialogue. These interactions help me challenge assumptions and discover better ways to lead,” he says.

This commitment to evolving with the industry ensures that Dream International not only keeps pace but defines the standard in luxury hospitality.

Looking Toward the Future

Cem envisions a strong trajectory for Dream International in the years ahead. With a strategy centered on expanding into new territories, deepening brand recognition, and creating signature experiences, the company is poised for sustained growth.

“Our goal is to create destinations that guests remember for a lifetime,” Cem shares. “We want each concept to be a masterpiece of service, design, and cultural richness.”

At the same time, the company is building on its commitment to environmental stewardship and social impact. As Dream International grows, it remains rooted in values of excellence, integrity, and global responsibility.

A Leader with Vision and Values

Cem Buyukkaya’s journey is a compelling example of what happens when strategic vision meets personal passion. Whether navigating financial frameworks or contributing to the evolution of luxury hospitality, he brings a thoughtful, people-first approach to leadership.

His ability to integrate innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency into one cohesive strategy has made him a trusted voice within Dream International and the larger industry landscape.As the company continues to shape iconic dining experiences around the world, Cem remains focused on one simple truth: success comes not only from asking the right questions, but from having the clarity and courage to act on the answers.