Early Life and Education
Viktor Vekselberg was born on April 14, 1957, in Drohobych, Ukrainian SSR. His father was Jewish, and his mother was Russian. He graduated with honors from the Moscow Institute of Transport Engineering (MIIT) in 1979, earning a degree in automation and computer engineering. He later pursued graduate studies at the Computing Centre of the Academy of Sciences, becoming a Candidate of Mathematical Sciences.
Rise to Success
Vekselberg's career began in the 1980s with research and engineering roles. In 1988, he founded NPO Komvek, and in 1990, he co-founded the Renova Group with Leonard Blavatnik. He benefited from the privatization of the aluminum industry in Russia in the 1990s. In 1996, he co-founded the Siberian-Urals Aluminium Company (SUAL), which later merged with other entities to form the United Company RUSAL, the world's largest aluminum company. Vekselberg also played a key role in forming TNK-BP, a joint venture with British Petroleum.
Key Business Strategies
Vekselberg's business strategy has involved strategic investments in key industries and capitalizing on privatization opportunities. He has focused on metals, oil, and technology. His Renova Group has investments across various sectors, demonstrating a diversified approach to wealth management and investment. Vekselberg also served as the chairman of the board of directors of UC Rusal and served on the board of directors of TNK-BP.
Philanthropy
Vekselberg is also known for his philanthropic endeavors, particularly in Jewish causes. He has supported the construction and restoration of synagogues and Jewish community centers, and has been involved with the Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center in Moscow. He has also contributed to the Skolkovo Foundation, a technology hub aimed at fostering innovation in Russia.