Kaan Salli
Hi, I’m your partner in driving business growth and efficiency. As an Industrial Engineer with a passion for lean management, I’ve spent three decades refining strategies that maximize outcomes with minimal input. My principle—"working for people with people"—has driven transformations in both businesses and individuals.
Transitioning from corporate leadership to solopreneurship, I’ve faced the same challenges founders encounter—strategic uncertainty, operational bottlenecks, and work-life balance struggles. That’s why I created the Fearless Founder Program to tackle key growth barriers:
✔ Founder Resilience & Decision-Making – Strengthening leadership under pressure
✔ Operational Efficiency & Stress Optimization – Streamlining processes for productivity
✔ Revenue & Growth Acceleration – Implementing data-driven scaling strategies
I combine engineering precision, business strategy, and personal growth expertise to help founders optimize operations and build sustainable, high-performing businesses. Let’s refine your strategy and take your business to the next level.

Education
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering from Istanbul Technical University, graduating in 1994.
Additionally, I have achieved a Lean Management and Manufacturing Expert Cerrtificate from Six Sigma Academy Amsterdam, Master Mindset Coaching Certificate from Transformation Academy, completing four certification programs in Confidence Life Coaching, Emotional Intelligence Life Coaching, Cognitive Behavioral Life Coaching, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Life Coaching.
Furthermore, I have been honored with an Expert Coach Certificate by Clients On Automation and Ed JC Smith (Accredited by International Authority for Professional Coaching and Mentoring).
Background
Throughout my corporate journey, I've had the opportunity to delve into a diverse range of roles, companies, and countries.
I've navigated through 11 different companies (mainly IKEA and METRO Cash & Carry), held 11 positions spanning from entry-level to executive leadership, made a successful career transition from finance to sales and business development, worked in 4 different countries, and lived in 6 unique cities.
My passion for working with people, recruiting over 2,000 individuals, and training more than 2,000, has truly been a rewarding experience!
For more details, please check out my LinkedIn profile (links below).
Foundation
I acknowledge that I am not perfect and never will be.
I embrace challenges with resilience and mindfulness, avoiding reactive behavior.
While I have experienced much, I recognize that there is always more to learn.
I offer empathy and attentive listening, without seeking approval from others.
I believe in personal growth and am committed to supporting your journey, but ultimately, the effort must come from within yourself.
I value authenticity and strive to be genuine in all my interactions.
I believe in the power of community and support, knowing that together we are stronger.
I set realistic goals and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
Beyond the professional
I find a great source of energy in spending time outdoors, engaging in activities like bushcraft, camping, hiking, yoga, and biking. I feel incredibly fortunate to live in Norway, where these activities are easily accessible in such pristine, beautiful, and clean environments.
I have a never-ending curiosity, which drives me to dedicate significant time to reading, listening, watching, and observing in order to learn, explore, and grow.
For many years, I have had a passion for electric guitars. I enjoy playing them for my own entertainment and have also modestly built a collection.