Mert graduated from Galatasaray High School and obtained his law degree from Istanbul

University Law School. He is currently pursuing his LL.M. studies at Istanbul Bilgi University.

Mert has key expertise in dispute resolution and acted for reputable corporations and private clients in various proceedings, including commercial litigation, debt recovery as well as criminal investigations, and criminal suits.

He also advises the firm’s clients on data protection, IT, and energy law-related matters. Prior to founding his own firm, Şanlı & Partners (currently known as Vardar Şanlı), in 2019, Mert worked at reputable law firms where he gained extensive experience in restructurings, M&As and financings, including project and acquisition financings, particularly in the energy sector.

Throughout his career, Mert advised various high-profile private clients and reputable companies, including Türkiye İş Bankası, Yapı ve Kredi Bankası, Yıldız Holding, Akfen, Arbel, as well as international energy companies such as Canadian Solar, Seraphim and Talesun.

His contributions have played a significant role in supporting numerous foreign investments entering Turkey.

Mert is a native Turkisk speaker and fluent in English and French.