Zakhar Smushkin

Place

• Now
  25th
• Last week
  27th
• Two weeks ago
  26th
• Three weeks ago
  26th

Zakhar Smushkin is a distinguished Russian billionaire, renowned for his significant contributions to the forestry and real estate sectors. Born in 1962 in Saint Petersburg, Smushkin co-founded Ilim Group, Russia’s largest pulp and paper company, which has played a pivotal role in the country's forestry industry and has established a substantial international presence.

Smushkin's journey began with his education at the Leningrad Institute of Technology, where he gained a strong foundation in engineering and business. This background proved invaluable when he and his partners established Ilim Group in 1992, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The company rapidly expanded, leveraging Russia's vast forest resources to become a leader in pulp and paper production.

Under Smushkin's strategic leadership, Ilim Group formed a joint venture with International Paper in 2007, one of the largest foreign investments in Russia’s forestry sector. This partnership brought significant technological advancements and global expertise to Ilim, further cementing its position as a market leader. Today, Ilim Group produces millions of tons of paper products annually, catering to both domestic and international markets.

Beyond the forestry industry, Smushkin has made notable strides in real estate. He is the driving force behind the ambitious development of “Moscow New City,” a large-scale urban project designed to create a new, modern district in the Moscow region. This project reflects Smushkin’s vision of integrating sustainable development with urban expansion, aiming to provide a high quality of life while promoting economic growth.

In addition to his business ventures, Smushkin is known for his philanthropic efforts. He supports various cultural, educational, and social initiatives in Russia. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the communities he engages with, particularly in promoting education and cultural heritage.

Zakhar Smushkin's entrepreneurial spirit and strategic foresight have not only made him a key figure in Russia's industrial landscape but also a notable influencer in international markets. His ventures in forestry and real estate, combined with his commitment to philanthropy, underscore his multifaceted impact on both business and society.

Share

Your involvement