Early Life
Yitzhak Tshuva was born in Tripoli, Libya, in 1948. His family immigrated to Israel when he was six months old, settling in Netanya. Tshuva's early life was marked by financial struggles; he began working at the age of 12 to help support his family, taking on construction and farming jobs. He served in the Israeli Defense Forces in the Engineering Corps after which he worked in construction for the Israeli Defense Ministry.
Rise to Success
Tshuva's career began in the construction industry, eventually leading to real estate development. In the 1970s, he began developing low-income housing in Netanya. He expanded his business ventures, founding El-Ad Group, a real estate development and holding company with major projects in the United States and Canada. A significant achievement was the 2004 acquisition of the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York City. In 1998, Tshuva gained control of Delek Group, transforming it into a major energy company with significant oil and gas discoveries.
Key Business Strategies
Tshuva's business acumen is evident in his strategic acquisitions and developments. He has a history of identifying opportunities in both real estate and the energy sector. His acquisition of the Plaza Hotel and the transformation of Delek Group into a global energy player showcase his ability to make strategic investments and expand operations. He has also focused on partnerships and regional cooperation, particularly in the energy sector.
Philanthropy
Through a fund established at Delek Group, Tshuva provides scholarships for Israeli university students each year. He also financed the construction of the Sha'arei Teshuva synagogue in the Western Wall Tunnels.