Early Life and Career
Kostyantin Valentynovych Zhevago was born on January 7, 1974, in Iultin, Russia, into a family with a mining engineering background. He later became a citizen of Ukraine and pursued his education at the Kyiv National Economic University, graduating with honors. He earned a degree in International Economic Relations and a master's degree in Economics in 1996, followed by a Ph.D. in Economics in 2003. Zhevago began his career in the financial sector, serving as CFO of Finance and Credit Bank.
Rise to Success
Zhevago's career quickly ascended, leading him to become Chairman of the Board of Directors of CJSC Finance and Credit from 1996 to 1998. He also held significant roles in Poltava Mining and Processing Plant and Ukrnafta. His most notable achievement was founding the mining company Ferrexpo. Zhevago took Ferrexpo public on the London Stock Exchange, making him the first Eastern European businessman to do so. This move significantly increased his wealth and solidified his position in the business world. In 2007, Forbes named him the youngest self-made billionaire in Europe.
Key Business Strategies
Zhevago's business strategy involved actively acquiring and divesting assets to maximize profits. He focused on building a diverse portfolio of companies, including those in mining, metallurgy, shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, and food industries. As the largest shareholder of Ferrexpo, he made key decisions to invest more than $3 billion in Ukrainian assets.
Philanthropy
Zhevago earns approximately $250,000 annually, which he donates to Ukrainian charities and also receives approximately $20 million in dividends each year. He owns the FC Vorskla Poltava football team, demonstrating his commitment to community involvement.
