Early Life
Evgeny Markovich Shvidler, known as Eugene Shvidler, was born on March 23, 1964, in Ufa, Russia, to a Jewish family. His father was a Soviet geologist. In 1989, he moved to the United States and pursued an MBA at Fordham University, graduating in 1992. He became a U.S. citizen in 1994.
Rise to Success
After earning his MBA, Shvidler returned to Russia during the post-Soviet era. He partnered with his childhood friend Roman Abramovich, forming the oil trading outfit Runicom S.A. In 1995, they partnered again to gain control of the oil giant Sibneft. Shvidler served as the company's president from 1998 to 2005. He was also a chairman of Millhouse LLC, Abramovich's investment company. His career also includes the purchase of shares to become a shareholder in Abramovich's steel company, Evraz, and being the executive chairman of Highland Gold Mining Ltd. His estimated net worth is $1.6 billion as of 2024.
Key Business Strategies
Shvidler's success stems from his strategic partnerships, particularly with Roman Abramovich, and his acumen in identifying profitable investment opportunities. His involvement in the acquisition and management of Sibneft, as well as his later investments in Evraz and Highland Gold Mining, demonstrates his ability to build wealth in the metals and mining industries.
Philanthropy
Shvidler is involved in philanthropy, including donations to educational initiatives, particularly in the UK, and supported the rebuilding of a Jewish school in England. He made a $1 million gift to Fordham University for the Center for Jewish Studies in 2016, following a $3 million gift to establish the Shvidler Chair of Judaic Studies in 2013.