Basak Aras

Results-oriented international Sales & Business Development professional with 9+ years of experience driving global revenue growth, strategic partnerships, and market expansion within international education, events, and digital platforms. Proven ability to develop high-impact B2B sales strategies, manage complex global stakeholder relationships, and deliver measurable commercial outcomes.

Recognized for strong negotiation skills, consultative selling approach, and ability to translate market insights into scalable business opportunities. Highly experienced in managing end-to-end sales cycles across international markets, combining strategic thinking with execution excellence.

Sales & Marketing Manager at VEF Global (2020-05 – Present)

• Lead international sales strategy and business development initiatives for global education fairs, webinars, and recruitment events.
• Identify, qualify, and convert high-value leads across global markets, strengthening pipeline growth and revenue generation.
• Develop and execute targeted commercial strategies to increase brand positioning and market share.
• Build long-term B2B relationships with universities, agencies, sponsors, and institutional partners worldwide.
• Manage full sales cycle from prospecting to closing and post-sales relationship management.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives, supporting clients transitioning into virtual event ecosystems.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and product teams to deliver high-impact commercial outcomes.
• Monitor market trends and competitor positioning to inform strategic sales decisions.

Sales Manager (Concurrent Role) at Endless Fairs (Sister Company of VEF Global) (2020-05 – 2021-11)

• Led global sales of virtual event platform during digital transformation period.
• Expanded international client portfolio and generated new revenue streams through digital event solutions.
• Delivered consultative sales presentations and managed onboarding processes to ensure client success.

Sales & Marketing Manager at a2 Fairs / AKARE International Education Fairs (2016-02 – 2020-05)

• Managed international sales and marketing strategies to drive event participation and commercial growth.
• Negotiated global partnerships and sponsorship agreements with international institutions.
• Oversaw end-to-end commercial event planning, including budgeting, vendor coordination, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Executed international sales outreach and campaigns across multiple markets.
• Delivered client-focused event solutions aligned with commercial objectives.

Education Counselor at IES Yurtdışı Eğitim (2014-11 – 2016)

• Provided consultative advisory to students pursuing international education opportunities.
• Managed institutional partnerships and supported application lifecycle.
• Maintained long-term client relationships through high-touch engagement.

Sales Representative / Beauty Consultant at Elizabeth Arden – Sabiha Gökçen Airport Duty Free (2009-10 – 2014-10)

• Consistently exceeded retail sales targets in high-volume international environment.
• Delivered premium customer experience aligned with luxury brand standards.
• Developed strong upselling and cross-selling capabilities.

Bachelor's Degree in Tourism & Hospitality Management – Maltepe University (2006 – 2010)