Early Life
Andrei Anatolyevich Kozitsyn was born in Verkhnyaya Pyshma, located in the Ural Mountains region of Russia, in 1960. Growing up in this industrial heartland, he developed a deep connection to the region and an early interest in the mining and metallurgical industries. Kozitsyn holds a master's degree in engineering from the Ural Polytechnic Institute. At the age of 13, Kozitsyn showed his compassionate side when he saved a girl from drowning, earning him a medal.
Rise to Success
Kozitsyn's professional journey began as a mechanic at Uralelectromed, a major industrial company in the Urals. Through dedication and hard work, he advanced through various roles, eventually becoming the General Director of Uralelectromed from 1995 to 2002. In the late 1990s, he co-founded Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company (UMMC) with Iskander Makhmudov. Under Kozitsyn’s leadership, UMMC grew significantly, becoming a leading producer of copper, zinc, coal, and gold, with operations spanning across Russia and several other countries. He served as CEO of UMMC until July 2022.
Key Business Strategies
Kozitsyn's strategic approach focused on operational efficiency and technological advancements. He streamlined operations and invested in modern technologies, which helped reduce costs and boost productivity. Kozitsyn also emphasized sustainability and environmental responsibility. His ability to navigate the complexities of the global market led to UMMC's expansion through partnerships and acquisitions in multiple countries.
Philanthropy
Kozitsyn is also known for his extensive philanthropic work. He is the president of the Children of Russia charity and has supported various community initiatives in the Ural region. He has been recognized for contributions to metallurgy, mining, and charitable activities. Kozitsyn supports education, healthcare, and job training programs. He is also involved in the KHL hockey club Automobilist and has plans to build a new ice arena.