Early Life and Education
Vladimir Olegovich Potanin was born on January 3, 1961, in Moscow, Russia. He came from a high-ranking Communist family. He attended the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO), graduating in 1983 with a degree in International Economics.
Rise to Success
Potanin's career began in the Soviet Ministry of Foreign Trade. In 1990, he established Interros, a private association focused on foreign economic consulting. He played a pivotal role in Russia's privatization during the 1990s, particularly through the loans-for-shares program. This program allowed him to acquire significant shares in Norilsk Nickel. Potanin served as First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia from 1996 to 1997.
Key Business Strategies
Potanin's strategy involved leveraging his connections and understanding of the evolving Russian economy. He focused on acquiring valuable assets at low costs during the privatization period. He has been involved in expanding his business interests into various sectors, including mining, banking, and tourism. In 2022, he acquired Rosbank and a stake in Tinkoff Bank.
Philanthropy
Vladimir Potanin is actively involved in philanthropy. In 1999, he established the Vladimir Potanin Foundation, which supports programs in education, culture, and philanthropy development. He has also pledged to donate a major portion of his wealth to charity. The Foundation’s endowment was formed in 2022.