What businessman Leonid Blavatnik is known for
Leonid Blavatnik is one of the richest people in Great Britain, his fortune amounts to about 20.6 billion dollars. The businessman owns industrial, media companies and real estate around the world.
Blavatnik was born in Odessa, graduated from the Institute of Transport Engineers in Moscow. During his studies he met Viktor Vekselberg, who later became his business partner. As a student Leonid showed the makings of a businessman, he was engaged in commerce of various goods, which at that time was a sought-after activity. After graduating from 4 courses, in 1978, Blavatnik moved with his family to the USA, where he changed his name to Leonard and continued his studies at Columbia University.
After his studies Leonard took a job at the Macy’s clothing chain, where he quickly worked his way up the career ladder. The young man became the head of the computer department, but he was more interested in entrepreneurship. That is why Leonid decided to enter Harvard Business School, and in parallel with his studies he worked in an auditing company.
In 1986 Blavatnik set up a company, which dealt with cargo transportation. One of the turning points in his business in 1987 was his meeting with his student friend Viktor Vekselberg. The young men decided to create a joint venture and started with the acquisition of aluminum smelters in the USSR. Despite the collapse of the Soviet Union and the falling economy, this turned out to be a profitable time for businessmen. They actively bought enterprises at an undervalue and exported raw materials to the United States.
In 1997 Blavatnik, Vekselberg and Fridman acquired shares in the TNK oil company and by 2003 organized a holding on its basis. In addition, Leonid and his partners bought other promising assets, such as Alba Alliance Bank and Sovlink Corporation.
In 2006 Blavatnik bought a luxury hotel complex in France worth $215 million. In addition, the businessman owns the world’s third largest sound recording company Warner Music. On the territory of Russia, Leonid also owns assets in the media segment. In 2012, he bought the company “Amedia”, which includes “STS Media”.
Blavatnik’s main business principle is to invest in different sectors of the economy, regardless of the country. He owns oil fields and elite real estate, and at the same time, each object brings income. Leonid’s assets are located in Europe, Russia, the United States and other countries. In addition, the entrepreneur is active in social activities, he supports universities, is a member of the Russian Jewish Council, and finances charitable projects.
