Ali Akinci is a strategic thinker with expertise in security, defence, and foresight, and more than fifteen years of experience across government, advisory, and think tank environments. His work spans geopolitics, policy, strategy, and stakeholder engagement, giving him a broad perspective on how public institutions, private actors, and international organisations can work together more effectively.
Throughout his career, Ali has worked closely with EU institutions, NATO, member states, and international partners to strengthen dialogue and build enduring relationships. He is committed to connecting ideas, people, and organisations in support of practical responses to today’s most complex global challenges.
At CEPS, Ali leads the organisation’s strategic modernisation efforts, helping to align its work with the evolving needs of the policy community. He oversees external engagement, partnerships, and collaboration with CEPS members and stakeholders, supporting CEPS’s role as a trusted and relevant platform in the European policy landscape.
Ali holds degrees from Leiden University, Leicester Business School, and Arnhem Business School, and is currently specialising in International Relations at King’s College London, with a focus on statecraft and intelligence.