The appointment of Ahmet Hamdi Usta as the new Governor of Yalova (Yalova) has been officially announced, reflecting the state’s approach of entrusting provincial administration to figures with deep administrative experience and a strong academic background—particularly at a time when Yalova is witnessing significant economic and urban development.
Early Life and Academic Career
Ahmet Hamdi Usta was born in Elmalı, Antalya, where he completed his primary, middle, and high school education. In 1984, he enrolled at Ankara University, graduating in 1988 from the Faculty of Political Sciences, Department of Public Administration.
As part of his academic development, he earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the United Kingdom in 2000. He later obtained a PhD on December 5, 2024, with a dissertation titled “The Impact of Using Advanced Technology on Manufacturing and Urbanization: The Case of Bursa.” He began his doctoral studies at Uludağ University and completed them at Dokuz Eylül University. He is fluent in English.
Entry into Public Service
Usta began his career in public service in 1989 after passing the civil service qualification exams, when he was appointed as a District Governor (Kaymakam) candidate in Afyon. During a three-year training period—which included a one-year academic program in the UK to study educational and administrative systems—he held several administrative positions, including:
- Deputy District Governor of Elmalı
- Acting District Governor in Sandıklı, Yenice, Divriği, and Karadeniz Ereğli
From District Governor to Central Administration
After successfully completing the 77th term, he was appointed District Governor of Babadağ (Denizli) in 1992, followed by appointments as District Governor of Şiran and Maden (Elazığ).
In 1999, he moved to the Ministry of Interior, where he served as a Branch Director, Head of Department, and later Acting Deputy Director General at the General Directorate of Civil Defense, prior to the restructuring of Turkey’s disaster management system.
Leadership Experience in Major Provinces
In 2009, he was appointed Deputy Governor of Bursa, and later served as Deputy Governor of Istanbul between 2015 and 2020, gaining extensive experience in managing provinces with high population density and strong economic activity.
On July 14, 2020, he was appointed District Governor of Balçova (İzmir). He also served as a Member of the Board of Directors of İzmir Geothermal Energy Inc., and assumed the role of General Manager in January 2023.
Governor of Bingöl… Before Yalova
By presidential decree issued in August 2023, Ahmet Hamdi Usta was appointed Governor of Bingöl, where he led the provincial administration during a critical period. He participated in national and international conferences and meetings, and represented the Ministry and the provinces in various project teams and councils.
Honors and Achievements
Throughout his career, he has received 22 certificates of appreciation, including one from the Minister of Interior, in addition to three monthly merit awards, reflecting institutional recognition of his administrative performance.
What Does His Appointment Mean for Yalova?
The appointment of Ahmet Hamdi Usta as the new Governor of Yalova comes at a time when the province is experiencing growth in investment, tourism, and real estate. His experience is expected to contribute to:
- Enhancing the efficiency of local administration
- Supporting sustainable urban planning
- Improving the investment climate and public services
This aligns with Yalova’s aspirations as a city that combines quality of life with long-term investment value.
Conclusion
Ahmet Hamdi Usta represents a model of a public official who combines strong academic credentials with extensive field experience. As he assumes his duties as the new Governor of Yalova, attention turns to a new phase of institutional work and balanced development in the province.
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