Early Life
Shlomo Eliahu was born in Baghdad, Iraq, on January 18, 1936. At the age of 14, he immigrated to Israel with his parents and eight siblings. The family initially lived in a temporary absorption camp and later settled in the Kiryat Shalom neighborhood of Tel Aviv. Following the death of his father, Eliahu became the primary breadwinner for his family.
Rise to Success
After a brief stint as an apprentice in a welding workshop, Eliahu sustained a leg injury and was dismissed. He then worked as a messenger for the Migdal Insurance Company. Shortly thereafter, he decided to become an independent insurance agent. In 1955, he opened an insurance agency, operating from a motorcycle repair shop in southern Tel Aviv's Shapira neighborhood. He also worked as an entertainment promoter. In 1966, at the age of 30, Eliahu founded the Eliahu Insurance Company, the first firm in Israel licensed to sell insurance.
Key Business Strategies
Eliahu's strategy involved focusing on tailor-made products and exceptional customer service. He expanded his business ventures by holding shares in Phoenix Insurance Company and the Ayalon Insurance Group. He became the primary private shareholder in Bank Leumi and held a controlling interest in the Union Bank of Israel. In 2012, he purchased controlling interest in Migdal.
Philanthropy
Eliahu has been involved in significant philanthropic activities, supporting various organizations focused on education, health, and welfare in Israeli society. He has contributed to Tel Aviv University (TAU), where he funds scholarships for students and serves on the Board of Governors. He is also associated with Aleh, Israel's largest network of residential facilities for children with severe physical and cognitive disabilities.