Ivey is excited to welcome several new faculty members to campus this year! To get to know our new colleagues, we asked them some questions to learn about their interests inside and outside the classroom.
Get to know: Mustafa (Hayri) Tongarlak
Mustafa Hayri Tongarlak is an associate professor of management science. Previously a visiting faculty member at Ivey, Tongarlak now joins the School as a full-time professor. He holds a PhD in industrial engineering and management sciences from Northwestern University. Before joining Ivey, Tongarlak worked as a postdoctoral scholar at the Kellogg School of Management and as a faculty member at Boğaziçi University in Türkiye. His research centres on applying management science methodologies to operations management issues involving environmental and social challenges. His research has appeared in journals such as Operations Research, Manufacturing and Service Operations Management, Queueing Systems, Decision Sciences, The European Journal of Operations Research, and Interfaces.
Tongarlak will continue teaching data analytics and management science courses including statistics, data-driven management, simulation and risk analysis, competing with analytics, and financial analytics across multiple programs at Ivey.
Q&A with Mustafa (Hayri) Tongarlak
Where did you grow up and what was it like there?
I grew up in Konya, a city in Türkiye where tradition and close family ties are deeply valued. My nearest relatives lived near my house, giving me a strong sense of community from an early age. The 1990s were a time of significant global change, marked by rapid technological advancements, economic shifts, and the spread of globalization. These broader transformations gradually took root in Konya, blending with the city’s deep-rooted traditions. Witnessing this balance between tradition and modernity shaped my perspective, teaching me the importance of integrating established practices with innovative approaches to overcome challenges. This mindset proved invaluable when adapting my teaching methods during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Who have been your strongest influences in life?
My parents. They taught me that true success isn’t measured by material wealth but by the strength of our principles and the quality of our relationships. Their approach to life instilled in me a deep sense of social responsibility and a commitment to living meaningfully. This also shaped my professional choices, where I prioritize what truly matters over immediate rewards. My wife shares the same perspective; her resilience and support have helped me stay true to these principles.
What led you to your career?
My career has been shaped by my passion for analyzing data and optimizing processes and my joy in playing board games like Monopoly, which involve strategic trade-offs and require optimization. When I discovered the management science field in high school, it aligned perfectly with my interests and skills, and I knew immediately that it was my career path.
What is the most important thing business executives can learn from your research/area of expertise?
When I meet executives, I emphasize the crucial role of their ownership in analytics projects. Decision-makers can ensure that analytical methods align with strategic goals, drive meaningful insights, and enhance decision-making. This approach builds a data-driven culture, enabling organizations to manage risks better and capitalize on opportunities.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
I love spending time with my family and friends. Whether hosting a dinner, going on a trip, watching a movie together, or simply supporting my kids in their activities, these moments are deeply fulfilling and keep me connected with my loved ones. I also find joy and relaxation in learning new languages, chatting with my wife, and reading a good book. These activities recharge me and often spark ideas that I can apply to my professional tasks.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
After high school, I wanted to stay close to my family, so initially, I only considered attending university in Ankara, a city near my hometown, even ignoring programs in Istanbul. Fast-forward one year, I found myself in Texas, halfway around the world from where I started. Life has a way of surprising you!
What is the most played song on your playlist as of now?
Cennet by Ahmet Enes. This song expresses a deep disillusionment with the transience and superficiality of this life, and I find the singer’s voice and the song’s rhythm calming.
What book would you recommend to others? On the personal side? On the business side?
On the business side, I would recommend The Skill Code by Matt Beane. I’m drawn to books that explore the evolving relationship between people and technology, examining historical contexts and future trends.
On the personal side, I appreciate reading commentaries on the Quran and studying the life and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad. These works offer profound spiritual insights and guidance essential for addressing contemporary humanitarian challenges.
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