F E ATU RE MADAM PRESIDENT Ebru Demirel was confirmed as FIDIs first female President at the 2019 Conference in Amsterdam. JamesRichards asks about her journey in the industry and her ambitions for the next two years I n a quiet, sunlit courtyard behind the Krasnapolsky Hotel, the energy and drama of the FIDI Conference is only vaguely detectable. Ebru Demirel, new FIDI President, takes a moment to consider her point. Of course, my sisters and I argue its in our blood, she says, laughing. Shes in the middle of explaining how her journey to becoming FIDIPresident began when she was a child, learning the trade from her father in Turkey. She describes how he didnt speak English when he started the business in Ankara in 1963, so he made sure his daughters learned it at school. He then sent the three of us to different countries, and we came back speaking German, Italian and French. That was a good business decision. One by one, the sisters joined the company and, now, own an equal share in the business. We may have fights, but were very close. This philosophy has accompanied Demirel ever since, and she sees the same values reflected across the industry. For family owners, its our life, and this affects the spirit of the Association, which is also like a family. People have more empathy and understanding with one another. Theres a lot of trust, going back decades. Since she attended her first FIDI Conference on Kauai Island, Hawaii, in 1994, Demirel has witnessed change, however. Lately, it has become tougher, with all the price pressure. Servicing is really difficult. But Im positive about the future because even though customers own fewer possessions they will always need removal companies. So, while volumes are decreasing, shipment numbers are on the rise. Demirel may be the first female FIDI President in the Associations history, but she wears the accolade lightly. I appreciate it means a lot to people. I think women dont put themselves forward enough because we lack the confidence to do so. I was the same when I was considering applying to the Board. I would love to create some awareness of the possibilities. While on the Board, Demirel was responsible for the FAIM portfolio. The FAIM Supervisory Committee and the FAIM Coordination Centre are the engine rooms of the scheme, she says. I believe FIDI is setting an example for the industry, and Ill ensure it continues to do this. I think women dont put themselves forward enough because we lack the confidence to do so. I was the same when Iwas considering applying to the Board. I would love tocreate some awareness of thepossibilities WW W. F I D I. O R G FF291JunJul19 pp60-61 Ebru interview.indd 61 Ebru Demirel talks to James Richards She wasnt always so enthusiastic, however. When FIDI first introduced the FAIM Quality Seal in 1998, our company was the first one to go through it, shesays. At the time, I hated it. But, after it became mandatory for allcompanies, it started to make sense. With the introduction of the DSP accreditation, FIDI will continuetomake sure Affiliates are up to date with industry developments. Demirel admits the industry can be a little conservative. But Im glad were now engaging with RMC companies and embracing technology. Its all part of being proactive, as opposed to reactive. Over time, for example, weve learned the importance of explaining the benefits of FAIM accreditation for Affiliates. Asked what one thing she would like to accomplish as President, Demirel has a clear preference. I would like topromote the value of respect. Regardless of the size ofyour business, your race, sexuality or religion, respect isall-important. Also, Im the servant of the Association. Its my role to continue the vision of the Board, support the will of the Affiliates, and be their voice. Im truly honoured to bePresident and Im really looking forward to the next two years. 61 10/05/2019 16:30