Early Life and Education
Viatcheslav Moshe Kantor was born in Moscow, Russia, on September 8, 1953. He obtained a degree from the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) in 1976 and later completed his Ph.D. in Spacecraft Automatic Control Systems in 1981. He began his career in research at MAI.
Rise to Success
Kantor transitioned to the business sector in the late 1980s, establishing a computer trading company. His significant financial breakthrough came in 1993 when he acquired a controlling stake in the Azot chemical plant in Novgorod, which he later rebranded as Acron. Under Kantor's leadership, Acron evolved into one of the world's leading producers of mineral fertilizers.
Key Business Strategies
Kantor's success is attributed to strategic acquisitions and leadership in the chemical industry, particularly the fertilizer sector. Acron's growth included diversifying its product lines and integrating various aspects of the business, including mining, production, and distribution, which strengthened its position in the global fertilizer market.
Philanthropy
Kantor has been actively involved in philanthropy, especially within the Jewish community. He has served as the President of the European Jewish Congress and the World Holocaust Forum Foundation, focusing on promoting tolerance, reconciliation, and Holocaust remembrance.