Barilla Turkey General Manager Murat Koç has been honored with the title of Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy by the Italian Embassy.

Murat Koç

Murat Koç, General Manager of Barilla Turkey, which delivers food products to millions of tables in over 100 countries every day through its 29 facilities worldwide, including its plant in Bolu, Turkey, has been awarded the title Cavaliere dell'Ordine della Stella d'Italia (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy).

Bestowed by the President of the Italian Republic, the Order of the Star of Italy is a prestigious distinction presented to individuals who strengthen the bonds of friendship between countries. The honor was conferred upon Murat Koç by Italian Ambassador to Ankara Giorgio Marrapodi during a ceremony held at the Italian Embassy’s Venice Palace.

Ambassador Giorgio Marrapodi highlighted Koç’s achievements since taking the helm of Barilla Turkey in 2021 and emphasized the positive contributions of Barilla’s operations in Turkey to the relations between the two nations. Drawing attention to the high regard in which the title of Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy is held in Italy, Ambassador Marrapodi said, “These honors are granted to only a limited number of individuals. There are two main criteria: the first is the advancement of bilateral relations, and the second is distinction in one’s profession or art. Mr. Murat Koç’s profile fully meets these criteria.”

Expressing his pride in attending the ceremony, Barilla Turkey General Manager Murat Koç said, “I am deeply honored to receive the title of Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy on behalf of my country, Barilla Turkey, and myself, as a symbol of the friendship between the two nations.”