Billionaire Profile
Jerzy Starak
Global Rank
#742

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Jerzy Starak

CEO, Polpharma
PL
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.4B
As of December 2025
Age
77
Source
Pharmaceuticals
Industry
healthcare
Citizenship
PL

Biography

Jerzy Starak, born in 1947, is a prominent Polish billionaire and entrepreneur. His wealth originates from the pharmaceuticals industry. He is the owner of Polpharma, the largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in Poland, specializing in medications for various therapeutic areas. Starak's career began in the 1970s with Comindex, which introduced leading consumer goods brands to the Polish market. His achievements include building a pharmaceutical empire and establishing the Starak Family Foundation to support young talent and promote Polish art. Starak's net worth is estimated at $5.4 billion as of 2024, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the Polish business landscape.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Jerzy Starak was born on December 12, 1947, in Cieszyn, Poland. He graduated from the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), where he studied agricultural economics. His early life was marked by an atmosphere that valued education and entrepreneurship, which later became the foundation of his career.

Rise to Success

Starak's entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s when he founded Comindex. This company played a crucial role in introducing major Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) brands to the Polish market during the 1990s. Notable brands included Nutricia, Colgate-Palmolive, and Bols. In 2000, Starak acquired Polpharma, the largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in Poland. Through strategic acquisitions, he expanded his business portfolio, eventually controlling 64.5% of Polpharma's shares by 2015.

Key Business Strategies

Starak's business strategy involves strategic investments and diversification. He chairs the supervisory board of Polpharma, which specializes in various therapeutic areas. He has also invested in ZT Kruszwica, a publicly traded agribusiness, and Herbapol, a producer of herbal products, demonstrating his diverse business interests.

Philanthropy

Jerzy Starak is committed to philanthropy. He established the Starak Family Foundation in 2008, which supports and promotes young talented individuals in Poland. The foundation also promotes his family's collection of modern art, contributing to the cultural landscape of Poland.

Career Milestones

1970s

Founded Comindex

Introduced major FMCG brands to the Polish market.

2000

Acquired Polpharma

Became the owner of the largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in Poland.

2008

Established the Starak Family Foundation

Focused on supporting young talents and promoting art.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Arts and Education

Starak Family Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports young talents and promotes Polish art.

Science and Education

Polpharma Scientific Foundation

Undisclosed

Dedicated to the support of science, education, knowledge about health, cultural patronage, and charity projects.