Suleyman Kerimov

Suleyman Kerimov – Business, Charity and Politics

Place of Birth

Suleyman Kerimov

Republic of Dagestan, Russia

Industry

Investment and politics

After graduating from Dagestan Polytechnic Institute with a degree in Economics in 1989, Suleyman Kerimov entered the business sector where he held the following roles:

• Assistant Director General and Economist at Eltav until 1995
• Deputy Director General in Soyuz-Finance until 1997
• Research Fellow and VP at the International Institute of Corporations until 1999

Kerimov is the former owner of Anzhi Makhachkala, a major shareholder of Polyus Gold and a billionaire. He started dabbling in investment during the fall of the Soviet Union and was also in charge of relations between Eltav and Fedprombank during this time. The bank provided finances to industries lagging due to the political upheaval. Kerimov achieved his substantial fortune once the economy recovered and debts to the bank were repaid.

The Suleyman Kerimov Foundation was established by Kerimov in 2007. Kerimov is particularly sympathetic to the plight of the disadvantaged youth in Russia but is also supportive of other fields like education, social services, medical research, infrastructure, sports development and religious initiatives.

His love for sport prompts Kerimov to generously support athletes and coaches in Russia including the Russian Wrestling Federation. Donations include building gymnasiums, providing equipment and bestowing grants.

Because of the businessman’s ties with the local government, the Foundation’s projects have better long-term prospects. This longevity is not typical to most philanthropic endeavors in Russia.