Early Life and Education
Oleg Deripaska was born on January 2, 1968, in Dzerzhinsk, Russia. He grew up in a working-class family. Deripaska graduated with honors in physics from Moscow State University in 1993 and later earned a master's degree from the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics.
Rise to Success
Deripaska began his career as a metals trader after the breakup of the Soviet Union. He used his accumulated funds to acquire stakes in the Sayanogorsk aluminium smelter. In 1997, he founded Sibirsky Aluminium Group, which later merged with Roman Abramovich's Millhouse Capital to form Rusal in 2000. He has been described as a victor in the "aluminium wars" in Russia during the 1990s. By 2007, Rusal merged with SUAL Group and Glencore International AG to form UC Rusal, the world's largest aluminium producer.
Key Business Strategies
Deripaska's business strategy involved strategic acquisitions and vertical integration within the aluminum industry. He focused on increasing production and efficiency through targeted improvements and modernization projects. He also expanded into various sectors through his investment group, Basic Element.
Philanthropy
Deripaska is the founder of Volnoe Delo, which is one of the largest charity foundations in Russia. The foundation supports programs in education, science, cultural heritage, healthcare, and social welfare.
