Billionaire Profile
Jerzy Starak
Global Rank
#765

Image: www.marcinmizerski.com | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Jerzy Starak

CEO, Pharmaceuticals
POLAND
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.543B
Estimated based on Pharmaceuticals stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
78
Source
Pharmaceuticals
Industry
Healthcare
Citizenship
POLAND

Biography

Jerzy Starak is a prominent Polish billionaire, born in 1947, who has significantly impacted the pharmaceutical industry. His wealth stems from his ownership of Polpharma, the largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in Poland. His career began in the 1970s with Comindex, which introduced major FMCG brands to the Polish market. Starak's net worth is approximately $5.39 billion as of March 2026. He is known for his strategic acquisitions and investments, including Polpharma Biologics, and his commitment to philanthropy through the Starak Family Foundation.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Jerzy Starak was born on December 12, 1947, in Cieszyn, Poland. After graduating from the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), he gained international experience in Italy, cooperating with leading Italian manufacturers of agricultural machinery.

Rise to Success

Starak's entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s with the founding of Comindex, which brought major FMCG brands to the Polish market. He acquired Polpharma in 2000, transforming it into the largest pharmaceutical company in Poland. He expanded his portfolio through the acquisition of Polfa Warszawa and investments in companies such as Herbapol.

Key Business Strategies

Starak's key strategies involve strategic acquisitions and investments in the pharmaceutical industry. He expanded Polpharma's operations through acquisitions and by investing in research and development, including Polpharma Biologics. Starak also diversified his investments, holding stakes in businesses beyond pharmaceuticals.

Philanthropy

Jerzy Starak founded the Starak Family Foundation in 2008, supporting talented young people, artists, and families facing financial difficulties. The foundation also supports art secondary schools and promotes young artists through the Spectra Art Space. The Starak Family Foundation has collaborated with the Roman Czarnecki EFC Educational Foundation on the Horizons scholarship program, which provides scholarships to students from families with financial difficulties.

Career Milestones

1970s

Founded Comindex

Established Comindex, which introduced leading consumer goods brands to the Polish market.

2000

Acquired Polpharma

Purchased Polpharma, transforming it into the largest pharmaceutical company in Poland.

2008

Founded Starak Family Foundation

Established a foundation to support talented young people and promote art.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Arts

Starak Family Foundation

$XB

Supports young people and artists through educational programs and art initiatives.

Education

Horizons Scholarship Program

$XB

Supports young people from families with financial difficulties.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Individuals and entities with appropriate resources bear the responsibility for developing philanthropy by seeking and implementing long-term, systemic solutions that bring lasting results for the development of society."

Leadership Principles

Strategic Investment

Focusing on strategic acquisitions and investments to grow the pharmaceutical business.

Philanthropic Engagement

Supporting young talent and the arts through the Starak Family Foundation.