Academic Achievement of Asst. Prof. Demet CEYLAN

Our university's Tourism Management Department faculty member Assistant Professor Demet CEYLAN, in collaboration with Antalya Bilim University, Kadir Has University, and Özyeğin University, conducted a study titled "The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Tourism Employees: Was it the Last Straw?" has been published in the prestigious journal International Journal of Hospitality Management (Q1; 2024 Impact Factor: 8.3).

This original study examines the effects of the pandemic period on tourism sector employees using a qualitative approach, shedding light on “employee experiences,” which have been largely neglected in the literature. Based on in-depth interviews with tourism workers who have held various positions in Istanbul and Antalya, the research reveals that structural issues in the sector, seasonality, lack of job security, and uncertainties during crisis periods have led many workers to permanently leave the hospitality industry. Conducted within the framework of the “sensemaking” theory, this research provides strong and actionable recommendations for developing policies and practices aimed at ensuring sustainability in tourism employment, thereby making a significant contribution to the literature.

We congratulate Assistant Professor Demet CEYLAN on this collaboration and wish her continued success in her work.