A graduate of Boğaziçi University and the London School of Economics, Cigdem has 15 years of research experience. Having worked in international research agencies in the UK, she set up XSIGHTS in 2004 and has worked in a variety of sectors since.

Cigdem brings international expertise to XSIGHTS and combines it with her local knowledge on Turkey’s social, political and economic aspects. She is well versed in both qualitative and quantitative research for the private and public sectors. An innovative methodologist, Cigdem is also an independent evaluator for the United Nations and asseses the performance of development projects.

Cigdem Penn has a strong understanding of policies, trends as well as public opinion. She is also one of the pioneers for the Corporate Reputation Index in Turkey and a frequent speaker and trainer about research methodologies. Cigdem is a seasoned moderator and facilitator, implementer of innovative projective techniques and public speaker. A member of ESOMAR, Turkish Association of Researchers as well as DEİK and TUGİAD, she is well-connected with international and national networks.

Cigdem, who has lived in three different countries and travelled many more, enjoys collecting local art and exploring new cultures. A mother of three, Cigdem offers great tips on how to look after babies, toddlers and teenagers.