She began her career in 1964 as a Member of the Board of Directors of Koç Holding, a position she continues to hold. In addition, she is Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vehbi Koç Foundation and the Divan Group, Founder of the Semahat S. Arsel Nursing Education and Research Center and Founder of the Koç University School of Nursing. She also serves as Member of the Board of Directors of other Koç Group companies. She is member of the Board of Trustees of the Educational Volunteers Foundation of Turkey (TEGV). Semahat S. Arsel has received an “Honorary Doctorate” degree from Istanbul University.