Derya Matras is appointed as the new regional director of Facebook in the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey. She will lead the company’s operations and help grow its economic and social impact across the region.

Matras spent most of her career in emerging markets and was previously the Facebook country director for Turkey. Prior to joining Facebook, she was vice president of Dogan Media Group, the largest media conglomerate in Turkey. She has also held leadership roles in management consulting at McKinsey & Company, advising the private sector and governments around the world, especially on the digital economy.

Commenting on her appointment, Matras said, “I am honored to lead this diverse region for Facebook, where our goals of building new experiences that meaningfully improve people’s lives and supporting millions of businesses that rely on our services to grow and create jobs, truly come to life. As a woman leader, I am very proud to be appointed to this region, where diversity is of crucial importance, and I am looking forward to continuing to drive our significant economic and social value contribution.”

“The fast-growing Middle East, Africa, and Turkey region is an important market for Facebook. Derya’s wealth of experience in emerging markets and her pioneering spirit will help us further drive impact and value in this uniquely diverse region while maintaining our mission of bringing people together and building communities,” said Nicola Mendelsohn, Facebook’s Europe, Middle East Africa Vice President.