Ceyda Sıla Çetinkaya is the Chief Operating Officer of Merzigo, a global leader in YouTube and Facebook monetization.
With a legal background at Baker McKenzie, in her role at Merzigo Ceyda leads commercial operations, international partnerships, and strategic growth, working closely with top media companies. Ceydaalso leads Merzigo’s commercial teams in expanding the company’s digital outreach and scaling across international markets.
How did you land your current role? Was it planned?
Not exactly, it evolved naturally. At a stage in my career when I wanted to do more and create greater impact, I was offered the opportunity to move from the legal side into the commercial leadership of Merzigo. It was a risky decision, as it meant stepping beyond my comfort zone, but it turned out to be one of the best choices I’ve ever made.
The legal team still reports to me, so I remain deeply connected to law – especially through contract negotiations – but I try not to approach deals solely from a legal perspective. Instead, I focus on commercial value, strategic partnerships, and long-term sustainability. That shift changed how I see business entirely.
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you choose your current expertise?
In digital media and technology, key roles span content strategy, monetization, partnerships, and commercial growth. I chose the commercial path because it combines creativity, data, and business strategy, the space where ideas become measurable success. It’s dynamic, global, and intellectually challenging, and it allows me to directly shape the company’s growth trajectory.
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
I’ve always admired leaders who combine intellect with integrity, people who can be both strategic and human. I don’t have a single role model, but I’ve been inspired by women who’ve built authority in industries not designed for them.
For years, I’ve sat at tables surrounded by investment bankers – mostly men, often cigar in hand – where I was the only woman. Those moments shaped me. I learned to speak up, stay composed, and let competence do the talking. It taught me that respect isn’t granted; it’s earned, and then reinforced by consistency.
What are you most proud of in your career, so far?
Leading Merzigo’s global commercial and marketing expansion – establishing our London and Los Angeles presence, shaping a $150M investment program, and forging partnerships with major studios- has been a highlight. But what I’m most proud of is doing all that while being a present mother. Balancing global leadership with parenthood has shown me that empathy, strength, and discipline can coexist beautifully.
What does an average work day look like for you?
Every day is different. My mornings begin early with calls across time zones, aligning with our teams and partners in the US and EMEA, followed by business reviews, deal negotiations, and marketing direction. I dedicate time daily to team alignment and performance review, ensuring both creative and financial priorities move in sync.
And my day always ends with my sacred hour – the time I set aside to read with my daughter before she falls asleep. No matter how demanding the day has been, that moment centers me. It’s my reset, my reminder of what truly matters.
Are there any specific skills or traits that companies look for in your field?
Yes, adaptability, commercial instinct, and clarity in communication are essential. The ability to connect creative ambition with business metrics is what separates good from great. Emotional intelligence, too, is critical – especially in managing multicultural teams and high-stakes negotiations.
Has anyone ever tried to stop you from learning and developing professionally, or have you found the tech sector supportive?
I’ve experienced both worlds – and I can say with certainty that the tech and digital media space is far more supportive. Earlier in my career, the environments I was part of were more traditional and hierarchical; it often took extra effort to be heard, especially as a young woman at the table.
In contrast, the tech world values results, innovation, and adaptability over titles or stereotypes. It rewards curiosity and problem-solving – qualities that make growth both faster and more collaborative. The shift has been refreshing. I find this sector to be much more open, merit-driven, and genuinely encouraging of continuous learning and development.
Have you ever faced insecurities or anxieties during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Yes, absolutely. As a person, I have a very perfectionist nature, and that sometimes pushes me toward anxiety. I set high standards for myself, which can be both a strength and a challenge. Over time, I’ve learned that not everything needs to be perfect, it just needs to move forward. What helps me is preparation, perspective, and trust, in my team, in the process, and in myself. I’ve learned to see mistakes as part of growth, not as failures. Accepting that progress is often messy has made me calmer, more balanced, and ironically, far more effective as a leader.
What advice would you give to anyone entering the world of work and feeling overwhelmed?
Feeling overwhelmed is completely normal, it means you care. What truly matters is resilience: the ability to keep showing up, to adapt, and to recover quickly when things don’t go as planned. No career moves in a straight line. There will be pressure, self-doubt, and unexpected turns, but resilience allows you to turn those moments into momentum. Don’t aim for perfection, aim for progress. Every challenge, no matter how uncomfortable, builds endurance and perspective. And those two things, far more than talent or luck, will carry you the furthest.
What advice would you give to other women wanting to reach their career goals in technology?
I know there will be so many expectations placed on you.
To be a mother. To be a partner. To be a good employee. A strong leader. A constant role model. You’ll meet different versions of yourself every single day, and that’s okay.
Don’t let it discourage you. Know yourself. Respect yourself. Love every version of who you are.
Each role you play is not a burden, but a reflection of your depth – a reminder of how many lives you touch and how much you’re capable of. Success isn’t about choosing between your roles; it’s about learning how beautifully they can coexist.
