Spotify Strengthens Presence in Turkey with New Istanbul Office and Expanded Leadership
Istanbul, February 2 – Global audio streaming giant Spotify has officially announced its plans to open a new office in Istanbul by the end of June 2026. This move marks a significant step in the company’s strategy to bolster its presence and operations within the Turkish market.
In conjunction with the opening of the new office, Spotify has also confirmed a key leadership appointment. Akshat Harbola will assume the role of General Manager for the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan, and Turkey (MENAPT) region. Harbola’s expanded responsibilities will now include leading the Turkish market, indicating Spotify’s commitment to localized expertise and strategic growth in the area.
Strategic Expansion and Local Expertise
The Istanbul office is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening Spotify’s footprint in Turkey. The company aims to support the market with enhanced local expertise and high-level management. Throughout the year, the Istanbul team is anticipated to grow with the addition of new members, further solidifying Spotify’s operational capabilities in the country.
This strategic expansion underscores the increasing importance of the Turkish market for Spotify, reflecting the platform’s dedication to serving its growing user base and artist community in the region. The move is also expected to facilitate closer collaboration with local content creators, artists, and partners, fostering a more vibrant and localized audio ecosystem.
Akshat Harbola to Lead MENAPT Region
Akshat Harbola’s appointment as the General Manager for the MENAPT region, now encompassing Turkey, highlights Spotify’s focus on unified leadership across these key markets. His role will involve overseeing strategic initiatives, market growth, and operational excellence across a diverse and dynamic geographical area.
The decision to establish a dedicated office in Istanbul aligns with Spotify’s global strategy of investing in markets with high growth potential. By having a physical presence and a dedicated leadership team on the ground, Spotify aims to better understand and cater to the unique preferences and needs of Turkish listeners and creators.
Impact on the Turkish Market
The establishment of a Spotify office in Istanbul is poised to have several positive impacts on the local music and audio industry. It is expected to create new employment opportunities within the technology and entertainment sectors, attracting local talent and contributing to the economic development of the city.
Furthermore, local artists and content creators may benefit from increased support, resources, and direct engagement with Spotify’s teams, potentially leading to enhanced opportunities for discovery and global reach. The move could also stimulate innovation within the Turkish audio landscape, encouraging the development of new content formats and listening experiences.
Spotify’s investment in Turkey through its new office and regional leadership demonstrates its long-term commitment to the market and its vision for continued growth and engagement with its diverse audience across the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan, and Turkey.
